Today I completed a questionnaire to help a fellow martial artist with a research project which explores the correlation between tournament participation and personal growth in martial arts.
It took me about an hour to complete and let me tell you… it challenged me mentally in the same way a one-hour sparring match would’ve challenged me physically. Answering these questions was tough—like many things in martial arts—which is precisely why we do them.
…Because on the other side of tough things… is a tough(er) self.
Here are some of the questions I fought over:
- What has been your biggest challenge so far in your training?
- What is your proudest moment?
- Was there ever a moment when you felt like quitting? What made you stay?
- How has martial arts changed you—mentally or emotionally?
- What lessons do you take out of martial arts into the world?
- How do you compare yourself to others, whether in class or at tournaments?
- How do you push yourself past mental and physical limits?
- Has someone ever changed your mindset at martial arts? If yes, explain that experience.
- How do you measure progress, beyond belt rankings and trophies?
- What does the word respect mean to you in martial arts?
- What role does teamwork play in martial arts?
- How do you handle conflicts/disagreements with teammates/instructors?
- Where do you see yourself in martial arts, 5 years from now?
- If you could look back at your past self, what advice would you give?
- How do you think martial arts will continue to shape you, physically, mentally and emotionally?
…When’s the last time you pushed yourself to honestly answer tough questions? Maybe it’s something you might consider doing today?