Keep the End in Mind

Keep the end in mind

Here at True Balance Karate in Downers Grove, Illinois, we have a social-emotional learning program called True Character. I’m Master H, the owner and chief instructor here at the studio. I was a special education teacher for 15 years, and I have two master’s degrees in education. We’ve developed this curriculum to meet the needs of our youngest students, who are three or four, and our oldest student, who is 85.

Recap

This month, we are talking about goal setting.

We started off by defining goals: knowing what you want to do and creating a plan to achieve it. Goals can be small or long-term, depending on what you want to accomplish. Last week, we discussed using the SMART acronym to refine goals: making them specific, measurable, attainable, reasonable, and trackable or time-bound. This helps create clarity and focus.

Staying on Track

Now, let’s discuss how to reach the end. Many of us struggle with distractions—new activities, family obligations, work issues—pulling us away from our goals. Here are some tips to help keep the end in mind:

1. Create a Vision Board
   Write out or illustrate what achieving your goal will look like. Use pictures from magazines or the internet, and decorate your board with creativity—glitter, markers, or motivational words. For example, if your goal is to achieve a black belt, include words like “leader” or “confidence” and images that represent success.
2. Tell a Friend
   Share your goal with someone who will hold you accountable. Ask them to check in with you regularly about your progress.
3. Write It Down
   Keep a journal where you document your steps and achievements. Alternatively, use Post-It notes to write down the steps to your goal. Remove each step as you complete it to see your progress visually.
4. Stay Interactive
   Make your goal as visible and interactive as possible. Whether it’s a vision board or a journal, these tools will keep you engaged and motivated.

Keeping the end in mind means making your goal tangible and staying focused on the journey. By staying organized, creative, and accountable, you’re more likely to achieve success. Remember, every step brings you closer to your goal.

Thanks, and I’ll see you on the mat!

True Balance Karate was founded in 2012 by Master Sue and Paul Helsdon.

We offer kids karate lessons for pre-school children ages 3-6 and elementary age kids ages 7 and up. These lessons are designed to develop the critical building blocks kids need — specialized for their age group — for school excellence and later success in life.

Our adult martial arts training is a complete adult fitness and conditioning program for adults who want to lose weight, get (and stay) in shape, or learn self-defense in a supportive environment.

Instructors can answer questions or be contacted 24 hours of the day, 7 days a week at 630-663-2000. You can also contact us here. True Balance Karate is at 406 Ogden Ave Downers Grove Illinois, 60515 (next to CVS) Check out our Facebook!