Competition arises when two or more parties strive for a common goal that cannot be shared: where one’s gain is the other’s loss. Therefore, how quickly we improve becomes paramount. The purpose of today’s blog is to talk about how our emotional responses can hinder the progression of growth, and how the elimination of those responses can make us more efficient.
Emotions are biological states within the nervous system brought on by neurophysiological changes associated with thoughts, feelings, behavioral responses, and a degree of pleasure or displeasure. These changes in our emotions are exactly what slows our progress and why we should learn to ignore them. However, this is easier said than done, as all of us naturally and instinctively allow our emotions to guide us. Nevertheless, through the discipline of our emotions, we grow more efficiently. For example, when faced with failure, most people generally lose confidence. As a result, the energy spent focusing on failure cannot be used for something more rewarding. All energy, including our mental energy, should be thought of as something sacred. Instead of reacting to success and failure, focus on following your plan. The more you can focus on your plan, the faster you will grow and succeed.
Throughout my life in martial arts, I have seen many fellow students hinder their own growth by focusing on their emotions. I too have done this. But looking back at those times when my emotions got the best of me, I realize those were the times I grew the most. I learned to set a goal and create a plan to achieve it. Then I put all of my energy into my plan by working and training and ignoring everything else around me.
Emotions can mislead us, but we can always fix that by simply focusing and following our plan. Stay on track and get to it!
