I frequently get down on myself that I’m not writing enough or working out enough or… doing anything enough. I suspect most of you know the feeling.
Earlier this year, when I was still at my last company, I felt like I was missing kung fu all the time. I didn’t feel like a good student. My school keeps track of attendance, and near a span of missed classes I had written, “I’m so lame!” Why on earth did I think that was necessary or even remotely a good idea?
Last week I took the time to actually count the checkmarks on my sheet and got a pleasant suprise: I’ve attended over 100 kung fu classes and over 30 tai chi classes so far this year.
It’s easy to lose track of the big picture when we’re mired in the individual pixels. I write a few paragraphs a day, or even just a few sentences, and it does actually add up. I go to class once, twice, or three times a week, and over time, I do actually improve.
All that time I spend beating myself up for not doing more? That’s the wasted effort. At the end of the year, that’s the time I wish I could have back.
Jenn,
A fine realization! Reminds me of a quote: "Little strokes fell mighty oaks."
I put JADE TIGER on my Christmas wish list, by the way.
Regards,
__
Jamie
P.S. Did you ever resolve your meditation quandary? (I sent a private e-mail on to you back in September, which I can re-send if you wish.)
Hey Jamie!! Yes, I actually still have your meditation email in my inbox, along with about 30 others that I want to spend more time on.
Thanks so much for putting Jade Tiger on your wishlist — that makes me feel all warm and fuzzy. :)
Hey Jenn, I got laid flat this month with a bad cold, and it's been so hard for me to not run myself ragged. I drag myself to kungfu out of fear that I will forget everything, or guilt that I should be doing more if I want to be a "true" martial artist. Thanks for the great reminder to enjoy the journey a little more!
Hey, Tiffany!
I have been enjoying a cold for the last week, too. It's so hard to stay home from class!! I actually went yesterday and just sat and watched. I couldn't bear to miss forms. But I probably should have stayed home… I guess I don't listen to my own advice most of the time. :)