Karate Teaches Perseverance by Master Mom Amanda Olson
“Failure is not the worst thing that can happen to you. Quitting is.” Amanda Olson.
I read yesterday where Michael Jordan missed 9,000 shots in his career and lost over 300 games. I don’t think anyone would call him a failure. Some of you may not know that I failed my first instructor certification test(for Karate), my 2nd degree black belt test in Taekwondo and my fourth degree black belt test. It never entered my mind to quite because of it, though. My karate training had made me mentally strong. It only made me train and study harder. Later, when I took the karate instructor test again I was called in front of the group of about 300 other people at the instructor camp and was awarded for making the highest score, 100. I was only 15 years old at the time.
I Kept Going
When I was pregnant with Keith when I failed my 4th degree karate test and had to wait a whole year to try again. Afterwards, I broke my boards on the first try that year, no problem. Since that time, 29 years ago, I have taught thousands of people how to stand up to bullies and find their inner strength. I’d like to think that by not giving up I’ve been able to help other people learn how to stand strong and follow their dreams. Don’t be afraid to fail at something you love, be afraid of giving up.
Amanda Olson – Master Mom amanda@askmastermom.com
From the Olson Family
We would first like to say, “Welcome!” It is our goal to provide the best martial arts training in a safe and encouraging environment. As a family we have devoted our lives to not only training the physical aspects of martial arts to thousands of people but the mental and emotional aspects, as well. Our goal is to help each student achieve Black Belt and Beyond. The reason for this is that we know from over 40 years of experience teaching martial arts that when a student experiences the awarding of a Black Belt, they soar with confidence.
What it Takes to become a Martial Arts Black Belt
It takes commitment, perseverance, goal setting and a strong work ethic to earn that belt. Even at a young age people know that a black belt in martial arts means something important. It shows you don’t quit, you don’t give up. That you have what it takes! Once you’ve done that, you know you can do anything you set your mind to: like getting into a great college, starting a career, making the team, anything you want. We love to hear the success stories of our students after they have gone off to college and started lives and families of their own. However, we are not surprised by their success. We already know they have what it takes to live their dream.
Character Development
Another goal we have as a family is to support families and help reinforce the qualities of character you desire for your child to have. Our proven character development and leadership program includes lessons from making eye contact to handling conflict. Also, speaking up and showing confidence ,as well as, standing strong for what you believe is right. Our desire is to train black belts who are not only highly skilled in the art of self-defense but who are kind, compassionate, confident citizens of our communities. People who have a strong work ethic and will show “Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control and Respect”, everywhere they go.
Let us Partner with You!
amanda@askmastermom.com
Because of this, we want to partner with you, the parents and families, in helping give your child a strong foundation in values, to be able to stand up for themselves and others, to make good choices, and to live a healthy lifestyle. Please don’t hesitate to speak with us if there is ever a point where we can help with question or concerns from motivation to troubles with bullying. We are committed to helping each of our students live a happier, safer and more confident life.
Sincerely, Amanda, Keith and Katie – The Olson Family