2 down/50 to go

I've made it through two weeks of classes now. I still love every class & think this was a great choice for me.

In one of the earlier classes and again today, John mentioned the importance of practicing; standing in front of the mirror and reviewing the moves we learn in class. My initial instinct, the one I've lived by for most of my life, was to blow it off. "Hey, I'm pretty good at this without practicing, I really don't need to waste my time in front of the mirror working on this stuff."

This was my general attitude through nearly 15 years of dance instruction and really, throughout most of my life in general. I've managed to get by at an average level, just coasting along, without really trying or making a sincere effort. And it works. I have lived a pretty successful life with this attitude. For many years, however, I have felt that I have something much greater to offer this world and that my time is coming.

When I heard myself make that statement, I realized how lazy my attitude really was. Is this the best that I want for myself, for my kids? "Okay girls, if you give 50% to any activity, that should be good enough. Giving it your all really isn't necessary...."

Hell no! That's not nearly good enough!! I want to give this attempt at karate my full, dedicated spirit. I may be good at this now, but imagine what I can do when I actually work at it, practice, give it a full 100%?

Okay, so I don't practice in front of the mirror per se (no room to move) but I HAVE been practicing. I don't have much time, so I work on it while I'm outside playing with my kids, sometimes with the 4 month old in my arms. I can still work on the stances & the footwork. I have even done practice runs while the 2 year old finishes her bath.

Not only does this mean that I'm adding more activity throughout my day (must be good for my body), but it also means my attitude towards life has shifted a little (must be good for my spirit). I no longer want to just coast through my life. I want to stand up, work hard, practice, and really give my heart to the next project(s) that comes my way. I may not always be successful, it may not always be 100%, but striving for that higher bar is good for me.