Staying Motivated: Strategies For Sustaining Progress In Your Martial Arts Journey

One of my favorite quotes on motivation is by the great Zig Ziglar: "People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing. That's why we recommend it daily." This, in a nutshell, is the mindset I have. While I don't adopt the "fake it till you make it" practice, I do have some specific strategies to stay motivated. Staying motivated in your martial arts journey is no different than staying motivated in all areas of your life. So, I'll be speaking in generalities.

Set Clear Goals

Goal-setting might seem cliché, but in the big picture, most people can say it's important but then not actually have their own goals. Clearly defined goals provide a roadmap for our aspirations. When setting goals, make them specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Having a clear understanding of what we want to achieve helps maintain focus and provides a sense of direction, thereby fueling motivation.

Track Your Progress

Acknowledge and celebrate every step forward, regardless of how small it may seem. Progress creates momentum. Even the smallest improvement is still an improvement. Sometimes, the improvement is simply staying the course and staying on track toward the goal. Don’t underestimate or undervalue simply continuing to move toward your goal by taking the necessary action steps.

Remember the Feeling

Preparation for a big event can be daunting. How do we begin to tackle all of the tasks to achieve our goal? Remembering the feeling of past accomplishments and successes can fuel you through the daily, monotonous grind that is often required. Let me be clear: this is not dwelling on the past; it just reminds us that we’ve "been here before" and we can do "it" again.

Create Newness

In martial arts, as with many activities, duties, or responsibilities, repetition is required and often essential to reach your goal. Find ways to create newness. Move your training outside, perform your techniques in a series rather than individually (or vice versa). We are all creatures of habit. Oftentimes, we create mindlessness by doing things the same way every day. Find ways to make your routine new. Shock the system, shock your muscles, and you’ll find a new spark to keep you going.

Expect Obstacles

When you’re training, you will have other responsibilities, obligations, and distractions. Knowing they’re coming is the key. A good friend has always reminded me that ten minutes of something is better than a whole lot of nothing.

Chip Townsend

7th Degree Black Belt

Team Chip Owner/Operator