Volume 2020-14
It has been close to two months since I last posted. After returning from Japan, I choose to take some time off. That lasted for a week, where I readjusted and went several rounds of hand to hand with jet lag. After a week off, I was back at it again, working on my graduate course studies and some side work instructing students. COVID-19 began to shut things down around the world, and the instruction I was doing on the side had to be shelved. However, my course work continued, and I was back reading, researching, and writing. The initial plan of taking a month off from posting spilled over to an additional 3 weeks. So, here we go…
As a young paratrooper, the saying “the entire world is a drop zone” was often heard and something I entertained as a young professional. Units that were on airborne status were often the first elements called to enter a hot spot. So, the thought of a paratrooper being prepared to infiltrate any of the world’s regions was reality. Whether an actual parachute drop would occur depended on several factors. The idea that the world is a drop zone was something those units rallied around to ensure their readiness and remain mission-focused.
So, what does the thought of the world being a drop zone have to do with a white belt mindset? After my recent experience in Japan, where the majority of training and learning took place in a dojo, I thought about the idea of learning and personal growth. My thoughts circled back to some of the ‘tag lines’ used during my military career. Tag lines like “tip of the spear,” “pressure, pursue, punish,” and “the world is a drop zone,” to name a few. I then thought of what a tag line would look like at this stage of life?
In thinking of a tag line or slogan, I wanted something that not only sounds cool but something that spoke of my passion and pursuit. Something that would remind me to keep pressing, to lace up and put the left foot in front of right, on and on. I came up with “the world is my dojo.” The world will be my training ground, and life and its lessons will be my pursuit. Is a tag line or slogan something we all need to maintain focus or pursue a goal? Absolutely not. It works for me. But the question is, what motivates you? What are the things you seek, and how do you stay focused? What is it that gets you back on track when life takes a detour?
I am a believer in mindset. Early in life, having a positive or strong mindset was taught to me by my parents, sensei’s, and coaches. The same can be said of the leaders and peers I crossed paths with during my military career. The type of mindset matters, as well. Having a growth mindset has helped me to learn and grow as a human being. It has challenged my beliefs, provided me a foundation, and, more importantly, facilitated enjoying life.
What is Growth Mindset? I am glad you asked. Growth Mindset: “In a growth mindset, people believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work—brains and talent are just the starting point. This view creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishment.” Dweck, 2015. Retrieved from https://www. renaissance.com/edwords/growth-mindset/
Life presents us with unique opportunities. Growing and learning is an integral part of life and brings value. My hope is that you are pursuing growth and owning your development in whatever profession, interests, or hobbies your soul is desiring. The world is my dojo, ready to challenge me as I continue stepping out on my journey.
Pat
