First Step
So, you are considering signing up for Taekwondo classes for the first time, or starting to train again after a time off. It is tough to take the first step, so here are some tips that may help you:
Say goodbye to the way things were
Ask yourself what you would be missing or giving up by training in Taekwondo. Are any of those things important enough to keep you from training? Could you give them up or put them on hold? Until you come to grips with what you may lose, you will not find any benefits to making the change.
Take a personal audit
Identify what you want to achieve. Get rid of everything that stands in your way and keep training regardless of how frustrated or inadequate you may feel.
Put your goals in writing
High achievers have goals and plans. Underachievers live in wish mode. Start with "stretch goals" that are both a reach and reachable, so you may accumulate a confidence-building series of small wins. Nothing becomes a goal until you write it down.
Use the language of change
Tune into the messages you send yourself. Eliminate "weasel words." such as "I will try sometime" or "I will start soon" or "I hope to," and declare what you will do positively. Switch from saying "I have to" and "I should" to saying "I will." Challenge automatic negative assumptions, such as "I couldn't do that," by asking yourself, "Why not?" Try to neutralize irrational fear.
Take baby steps
Think of one small thing you may do today that will make you feel better tomorrow, such as walking a mile or doing some pushups. One daily change, especially if it helps you finish something you started, may change the trajectory of your life.
Tackle self-defeating habits
Identify three behaviors that have stopped you from training and change them.
Get support
Recruit a friend to encourage you to reach your goals. Surround yourself with positive people who do not make you feel inferior or defensive. Train yourself to tune out the negative words of others.
Be your own Monday morning quarterback
Top competitors analyze and learn from each performance. Like them, focus on what you did well in class and what you may correct, and aim to do better the next time.