Is it time to make a REAL change in your life?
Change is really hard, isn’t it? After working with hundreds of local children and adults I can tell you the simple reason why.
Have you ever started a diet, new exercise program or gym membership? Did you say “This time I’m going to do it!” Were you excited and all set to get off to a strong start only to find out that after a couple months you were right back to where you started (or worse)?
The good news is it was probably not the program or even your motivation. The reason most adults cannot sustain long term change has to do with their “COMFORT ZONE”. So the key to make real, lasting change in your life is not in choosing the right diet or program but in changing how your think, your mindset.
Now you are probably saying “Okay, that sounds good. Now how do I do that?” First you have to understand your comfort zone. It is always moving in the direction of getting larger or smaller. Have you ever known an older adult whose comfort zone was so small they can barely get themselves out to do anything? The bad news is that if left on its own we naturally shrink our comfort zone as we age.
To make real change you have to live in the mode of expanding your comfort zone (and loving it). The reason we can’t stay on a diet or exercise program is because it is just too “uncomfortable or painful” for us so when the results plateau (as they always do) we revert back to our old habits and shrink back into our comfort zone. We like being “safe” and comfortable.
One way to expand your comfort zone is by using something like a personal “life coach”. Another way is to intentionally go out and do things that are beyond your comfort zone, like parachuting out of an airplane or bungee jumping. But most of us need something easier and with good people around to support us. That is where karate comes in.
The reason karate can be such a powerful "change agent" is because it is one of the few activites that covers every facet of who you are - physical, mental, health, stress, relationships, emotional, intellectual, social, mindset and attitude. All in a positive, supportive environment where you are surrounded by mentors and peers. Where else can you find this in our crazy unforgiving world today?
Karate is much more than just kicking and punching. Think of the karate “dojo” as the average adult’s personal development lab where they can discover themselves, push the edge of their comfort zone, then learn to change their mindset. Change your mindset and you will change your life.
Now before you say “Oh, it’s karate…” and discard this. I urge you to keep an open mind, and read what some of our adult students have to say:
“I feel so much better physically and mentally. It’s really amazing how much this has affected every aspect of my life.” -Angie Lavich, Howell
“I walked out this morning dripping wet and aching. But it felt SO good. I’m not an athletic person, and I’m out of shape physically. I have been pushed beyond what I ever thought I could do and have no doubts at all that I will keep getting stronger . . . . . I have a fantastic support team cheering me on. No one at the gym cared if I finished all my reps or did my time on the machines. Everyone here cheers for me – sincerely. They care. –Marlene Edwards, Fowlerville
“I lost all the weight I gained during my second pregnancy EASILY!” -Rachel Schlichting, Howell
Here’s the bottomline – what karate is all about is learning to live your life “on the edge”. What keeps most of us from doing this is our “fears and self doubts” and our “comfort zone". This Dojo is simply a place to face and eliminate your fears and expand your comfort zone.
My favorite saying is “Life begins at the edge of your comfort zone.”
So take that first (hardest) step and we will do the rest! Call me at (517) 586-1001 or CLICK HERE so we can see if this is for you.
Yours for Happiness and Success,
Sam Larioza