Here are 9 vital traits found in dedicated practitioners that can lead you to realize your highest potential:
Overriding is our credo in a word – PRACTICE. For practice transcends all circumstances and fluctuating states of being:
• Whether tired or vibrant – Practice
• Joy or sorrow – Practice
• Fair weather or foul – Practice
• When it’s easier not to – Practice
For true learning is never limited by the whims of the conditioned mind.
1. DISCIPLINE – Many teachers and long-time practitioners regard discipline as fundamental for the sincere student. From day one, many instructors imbue their students with the value of discipline – adherence to the principles, respect for the teachings, the sacred space, and one’s mentors. As simple as it sounds, personal and collective discipline is the distinction between the realized and the “could-have-beens.”
2. PASSION – To be passionate is to pour your entire heart, mind, and spirit into your aspirations, unable to conceive of any alternative. Take the time for profound self-reflection on your deepest goals. If you feel you would let nothing stand in the way of their embodiment, you are already walking the path of the awakened.
3. HUMILITY – Failure is a fascinating reminder to remain humble. Never let the ego delude you into arrogance, regardless of attainments or accolades received. Stay grounded in humble gratitude.
4. CONFIDENCE – To succeed, you must resolutely believe in yourself and your abilities. Have faith in your teachers and the transmitted wisdom of the teachings. Walk centred in the confidence that comes from sincere training – knowing you can handle any circumstance with grace.
5. SETTING INTENTIONS – Setting aspirations for yourself provides a compass for your progression. Deeply contemplate where you’d like to be a year from now. Write down your intentions clearly and concisely. Give yourself a realistic yet specific timeline. As you complete each intention, reward yourself, then expand your horizons.
6. PATIENCE – The path can be long and arduous, yet with patience you’ll reach every destination. Stay present, success will bloom when the season is ripe.
7. VERSATILITY – A versatile practitioner can adapt and harmonize with any situation, flowing like water to reconcile any challenge. By diligently honing strengths while improving weaknesses, a holistic mastery is cultivated that is fully prepared for all circumstances.
8. OPEN MIND – These teachings are a living tradition, continuously evolving. There are always new perspectives, novel training methods and techniques unfolding. No matter how realized, there is always something higher to integrate. Stay open and curious to accelerate your learning.
9. OPTIMISM – It can be difficult to stay optimistic when feeling stagnant or challenged. Yet rather than frustrating over obstacles, embrace them as fascinating opportunities for growth. Note what is testing your limits, seek guidance, and move forward with a positive spirit.
The moment you surrender is the moment your progress ends. Instead of resignation, envision how far your capabilities can ascend by continuing with steadfast effort. Stay optimistic and find the hidden brilliance in every seeming setback.
By integrating these principles with your sincerest devotion to the path of yoga, meditation, and martial arts, you will witness your skills, presence, and radiant well-being dramatically flourish.
Above all else, keep smiling and move forth with a joyful heart!
