Having the right mindset in Taekwondo.

At W1 Taekwondo we focus a lot on having the right mindset. From our recreational program - that is attended by children 4 years old, teens and adults - to our awarded W1 Competition program, we always emphasize MINDSET. But what is mindset?

Mindset is a set of beliefs that you hold about yourself and your abilities. It can be fixed or growth mindset.

• Fixed mindset: People with a fixed mindset believe that their abilities are fixed and cannot be changed. They may also believe that talent and intelligence are the only things that matter, and that effort is not necessary.
• Growth mindset: People with a growth mindset believe that their abilities can be developed and improved over time through effort and practice. They may also believe that everyone has the potential to learn and grow, regardless of their starting point.

Your mindset can have a significant impact on your success in Taekwondo and in general in life. People with a growth mindset are more likely to take on challenges, persevere in the face of setbacks, and learn from their mistakes. They are also more likely to be successful in Taekwondo, school, work, and relationships. At W1 Taekwondo we teach our kids that storms never last, and that everything is temporary from hardships to successes.

The beauty of our martial arts program is that we take our students to similar challenges that life takes us only that we tailored them to be age appropriate and skill appropriate so students of all ages can have access to a set of teachings that they can hold on for the rest of their lives. In the end, the challenges they face in Portland, Oregon can be faced anywhere around the world. The key is to stay consistent and persevere through our taekwondo program.

The goals that we set are similar with the goals they will set in life, the way you move up in belt is similar with the trials and achievements you move throughout life. The opponents you need to face are similar with the hardship you might face in life in the future.

Here are some tips for developing a positive mindset in Taekwondo:

• Set realistic goals: When you set realistic goals, you are more likely to achieve them, which can boost your confidence and motivation.
• Focus on your progress: Rather than comparing yourself to others, focus on your own progress. This will help you stay motivated and on track.
• Celebrate your successes: When you achieve a goal in taekwondo, take the time to celebrate your success. This will help you stay positive and motivated.
• Find a supportive community: Taekwondo is a great way to build a supportive community of friends and training partners. This community can provide you with encouragement and support when you need it. You can find your tribe from children to teens or adults of all ages, races, genders. We pride ourselves in having an inclusive community.
• Be patient: It takes time and effort to master the skills of Taekwondo. Don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately. Just keep practicing and you will eventually reach your goals. It took us years to grow our community in Portland Oregon, if we can do it, why not you?
• Believe in yourself: Believe that you can achieve your goals, no matter how difficult they may seem. We have students that often have a hard time in Olympic sparring for example but you would be surprised how they start to believe in themselves after they manage to face their fears.
• Be persistent: Don't give up when things get tough. Keep practicing and you will eventually succeed. Do not forget our goal is to make it tough for you so you can climb to a new level.
• Be positive: Have a positive attitude and focus on the good things in your training. Always think the good, and use the bad to motivate to be better.
• Be humble: Be willing to learn from your mistakes and from others. Never think you know everything, be like an open book who cannot wait to add another line to their stoy.
• Be respectful: Respect your instructor, your training partners, and yourself. If you want respect, give respect. Show courtesy and good manners.

We hope this helps you have a better idea about our taekwondo program that we have been running for years in Portland Oregon. It has not been easy and we hope that through our perseverance to lead the way for a new generation of leaders that can contribute to our great community in Cedar Mill, Beaverton and Bethany. If you are interested to join us, do not hesitate to reach out.

With appreciation,

W1 Taekwondo.