2 minute read
Learn to Fail in Order to Succeed
by Expert Contributor Lou Marvil, Owner of Level Up Black Belt Academy
Many parents look for ways to protect their children from failing so much so that their children develop a false sense of security and an inflated self-esteem. No parent wants to see their child feel sad due to not reaching a goal, making a team, earning a belt, etc. But real power comes from the experience of losing.
When everyone gets a participation trophy or game scores aren’t kept or students can receive 50% even if they don’t turn in an assignment, they’re learning that they can and should get everything they want even though they give less than their personal best.
It’s not life’s failures that define us; it’s what we do with the lessons learned from not succeeding the first time. Allowing children to fail allows them to learn how to get back up. Parents and children often look outward, to place blame on others for why they didn’t reach their goal. They should instead look inward and ask this question: To do better the next time, what must we do and how must we do it?
In the martial arts, children progress at an individual pace. They’re taught that success is a team effort between child, parent and instructor. The parent’s job is to support and encourage their child by getting them to class consistently and on time, and by not letting them give up on themselves. The instructor’s job is to recognize where each student is at with their progress; help them develop a plan to reach the next level; and provide the child with constant feedback and encouragement. The student’s job is to be ready to get to class; practice at home on their own; ask for help when needed; and apply their best effort and attitude to everything they do.
Give the Gift of Confidence!
When children learn that they can get back up after falling and keep moving forward towards their goal, they’ve also learned that there’s nothing that can stand in their way if they’re determined to reach a goal.
If you’ll allow your children to experience many failed attempts, the pride and joy of true success they’ll feel is like walking out the front door after a week of rainy weather and walking into a beautiful sunny day.
When looking for a martial arts studio, you’ll want one that will challenge your child to be their best and not just the best. Look for caring instructors who will encourage and guide your child to be a little better every day. Most importantly, you want a studio that will teach your child to get up one more time than they fall down.
Level Up Black Belt Academy
Martial Arts Programs for Children & Adults • Fitness Kickboxing training for adults • Gain improved flexibility, strength, confidence & overall well-being • Train with Newtown Square’s Grand Master & Martial Arts Champion
610-355-1960
www.LeveLUpBlackBeltAcademy.com
3609 Chapel Rd, Newtown Square
