Everyone has goals. Not everyone has plan for reaching those goals. Here are some principles to use in achieving your goals.

Positive Thinking

Do not be a pessimist! There is something good to be found in most everything. Do not blame other people, things, or circumstances or otherwise make excuses for your own shortcomings. When you fail a rank testing because you could not break your boards, do not blame it on the wood or the holders. When something goes wrong, view it as a learning experience that will help you reach your goals.

When you fail at something, learn from your mistake and either try again or move on to something more to your liking. If you keep failing the black belt test, keep trying, it will happen if you keep trying. Look at failure as a character builder. Look at success as an indicator of your character rather than as simply the successful completion of a task. By viewing success and failure this way, everything you do will build your self-confidence.

Focus Your Thoughts

Avoid dwelling on things you cannot do or that are beyond your control. If you are shorter than other opponents at a tournament, there is nothing you can do about it. However, you are faster than they are, so take advantage of it. Concentrate only on things that you can do or have control over. If you have no control over a circumstance or situation, no amount of worry will change things. Focus on what you can change.

Set high but realistic, achievable goals. Unachievable goals foster failure. If you are a 10-year-old white belt, ninth degree black belt is an achievable goal. If you are a 40-year-old white belt, you need to set you goal a little lower. Set intermediate goals that lead to the ultimate goal. Successfully reaching each intermediate goal will build confidence toward reaching the ultimate goal.