The Power Of Determination In Achieving Your Goals

When it comes to reaching your most significant goals, determination is the secret sauce. As someone deeply passionate about martial arts, I must confess that I was not blessed with natural talent. My journey has been a testament to sheer hard work and unwavering dedication.

In preparation for gradings, I often commence “extra sessions” years in advance. For international tournaments, my training starts approximately nine months ahead, focusing on honing the specific strategic skills required for success.

World Champion

As a World Champion, I have learned that determination is not just about putting in more time and effort than everyone else. It is also about being willing to go the extra mile to “control the controllables.” In international tournaments, I might not always be the most skilled competitor, but I have always prided myself on being the fittest and most resilient. I got this way due to my determination to do the hard work required. This gives me the confidence to win.

In the last World Championships, I faced a challenging situation in each of my bouts as I was taken down (e.g. judo throw or wrestling tackle) in the first round and being forced to fight on the ground. This is not my preferred fighting style. However, my determination, fueled by years of hard work, pushed me to believe that anything is possible. This mindset allowed me to regain control each and every time, and ultimately winning each bout by submission.

The victories, and the way that I won, was particularly satisfying because it showcased my ability to adapt and succeed outside of my comfort zone. It is not boasting. It is more highlighting the incredible power of determination and not letting anything get in my way. If I was not 100% determined, I would not have gotten the results.

Am I sharing this to brag? Absolutely not. I am actually a rather shy, introverted individual. Martial arts has been my outlet for self-expression, allowing me to break out of my shell. The supportive community I have found has been instrumental in cultivating a positive, winning attitude.

Not Boasting…Just Determined

Am I sharing this to brag? Absolutely not. I am actually a rather shy, introverted individual. Martial arts has been my outlet for self-expression, allowing me to break out of my shell. The supportive community I have found has been instrumental in cultivating a positive, winning attitude.

I share this story to emphasise that when you maintain unwavering focus, put in the hard work, dare to chase your dreams, and possess an iron-clad determination to overcome obstacles, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. In my case, I aspired to be the world’s best in something I love, if only for a brief moment, and determination guided me there.

5 Strategies To Build Determination

Here are some strategies to help build your own determination:

1. Believe in yourself. Confidence is key. You are less likely to give up if you believe you can do it.
2. Define ambitious, yet realistic goals. Write them down, how you will achieve them, and what you will sacrifice or trade-off. You must also ensure your goals align with your values.
3. Develop a routine that will lead you towards your goals. When you stick to your routine, it will increase your determination.
4. Prioritise rest and self-care. Focusing requires physical and mental power. So, like a physical workout, make sure you rest, eat correctly and sleep correctly afterwards. Determination is so much easier with re-charged batteries.
5. Set challenges for yourself. If a goal is too easy, you will be disengaged and will not tap into your “determination muscle”. The bigger the goal, the greater the determination required, which will help empower you.

…And 5 More Strategies To Build Determination

1. Cultivate a positive mindset to conquer obstacles. Determined people do not defer to negative thoughts. A positive mindset gives you a different perspective on obstacles, tasks and rewards.
2. Delay instant gratification for greater self-control. Postponing rewards helps improve your willpower and dedication, which are major ingredients for determination.
3. Avoid temptations that can undermine your determination. Avoid the temptation. If you want to lose weight, avoid the chocolate aisle at the supermarket (my weakness ha ha). The determined person will walk right by, but also…
4. Be kind to yourself. You are not perfect and will always miss a step here and there. Acknowledge the progress you have made thus far, then remain determined to reach your goal.
5. Seek support from family, friends, trainers, Black Belts and me. Our community wants to see you succeed.

For “martial arts classes near me”, that prioritise determination and guide you on the path to success, check out the class schedule on the website. Take the first determined step towards “Building A Better You”, and I look forward to seeing you in class.

If you like this article, please share it with your friends using the social media links below. We very much appreciate your support.

www.quantummartialarts.com.au