“Iron is full of impurities that weaken it; through forging, it becomes steel and is transformed into a razor-sharp sword. Human beings develop in the same fashion.” Morihei Ueshiba (founder of Aikido)
I planned for my six weeks here in Japan to be conducted in two distinct phases. The first two to three weeks were going to be Phase 1, where I focus primarily on learning many of the new techniques and apply mental skills training. The plan for the final three weeks was going to focus on performance enhancement of the basic skills and to look at the training venue from a performance consultant’s perspective.
This past Wednesday marked the completion of the first week. I have realized the need to adjust my plan for a couple of reasons. I found myself reflecting on how this training is fostering many thoughts and practices that are parallel and complementary regarding the areas I had separated as the two phases. Additionally, I realize there is a lot of personal and professional growth taking place. I want to honor those areas by allowing flexibility in the self-generated plan.
The training averages about 10-12 people, and the pace is rather fast. I appreciate the fact that the training is not slowing down for the new guy, which adds to the intensity and speed of my learning. With that, there is some frustration, though. For example, it is hard to execute something when you haven’t been taught it yet. The saying, “you don’t know, what you don’t know,” comes to mind. Additionally, I can mimic a technique, but my goal is to understand the “why” behind certain things to enhance understanding.
I draw parallels to many of my prior training, whether it was sports or military-related. For example, I fully comprehend keeping the sword towards the opponent and maintaining situational awareness. Same thing as firing a weapon, and making sure your opposition is down before moving to the next target. I get that the cognitive process computes the data quickly, and decisive action occurs rather fast. But that comes with training (instruction and application) and repeated stress-induced scenarios.
I have experienced some frustration with inconsistency in instruction or communicated expectations. I like to work the basics and to steer away from building poor habits. In the process of executing some of the Kendo drills, I have received a correction to “slow down,” followed by, “you move to slow.” I thought about some of the frustrating points on the train ride back to my apartment. During a break, I reminded myself of two sayings I often repeat. “Slow is smooth, smooth is fast” and “control the controllables” are two phrases that aren’t original with me but have served me well over time.
I realized on the train ride back that night that I was missing something to help keep me focused. The environment, other trainees, receiving commands, and internal/external stimuli often coincide, shaping the training experience. All that can cause me to get off-track at times. While progressive in nature, I know when I get frustrated, my performance is affected. So, a piece I felt was missing was a mission statement.
I came here with vision, intent, and goals. On the train ride, “mission statement” came to mind as something that has helped me to stay focused during many chapters of my military career. More recently, I developed a mission statement with the aid of a counselor as I transitioned out of the Army. Having a written statement has helped me to stay focused and make positive decisions that were in line with my mission. It’s a tool that has worked for me before.
Thursday, I went to a cafe and wrote a rough draft of a mission statement for my time here. Doing that led me to consider adjusting my overall plan and assess what has taken place so far. I will be in the Dojo for 12 hours between tomorrow and Sunday and am looking forward to seeing how I stay focus following the latest analysis and assessment.
The opening quote speaks about forging, and I see a lot of that taking place thus far. I enjoy this process and feel that learning and growth is a lifelong endeavor (part of my post-Army mission statement.) In-Progress Review (IPR) is a tool we regularly used in the military. I believe the IPR conducted over the past couple of days will prove instrumental as I continue the Kendo training. In turn, it will enhance the continued forging of my personal, academic, and professional life.
Pat
That was a great read brother! Stay focused on the training at hand. Remember slow is smooth and smooth is fast. I know it’s a great experience.
Cedric
Thanks, Brother. I often find myself repeating that saying.
Pat