Positive Actions

Positive actions

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 have two master’s degrees in education, and we’ve developed this curriculum to meet the needs of our youngest students who are three or four and our oldest student who is 86.

Positive Attitude

This month, we are talking about having a positive attitude. I look for the good everywhere, and we started off defining what it meant and what it looked like. Last week, we talked about having a positive attitude with our thoughts and feelings and some things we can do to help us feel more positive. If we’re going to maintain a positive attitude more consistently, there are actions we can take to help us.

Positive Lifestyle

Actions like getting good sleep. I don’t know about you, but when my kids were little, if they didn’t get enough sleep and missed their nap, they were super cranky. If we’re being honest, I get super cranky if I don’t get enough sleep too. Getting a good night’s rest—whether that’s six hours or eight hours—matters. I do best with eight. Having a good bedtime routine helps. Are you still flipping through your phone, keeping your brain active when you should be winding down? Or do you have a routine—brushing your teeth, reading a little, playing some music, journaling—that helps you relax before sleep? For me, journaling helps me process lingering thoughts from the day. It looks different for everyone, so think about what works best for you.

Good Routines

Also, consider your kids. Are they rushing from one activity to another with no downtime? Have they had a moment to read, build with Legos, or just breathe before bedtime? Another key action is eating healthy. Eating good fruits, vegetables, and proteins—getting a balanced diet—makes a big difference. I’m not saying I don’t eat cake because I definitely do for birthdays and special occasions, but if you’re eating healthy 90–95% of the time, your body will feel good, and so will you. Exercise is another way to boost positivity. We talked last week about how endorphins help you feel happier. Find an exercise you enjoy. Don’t go to the gym because you feel like you have to—find something you love. Join a soccer league, go for a run, or play a sport with friends. Movement, exercise, and sweating a little can really improve your mood.

Good Relationships

Making positive connections with others is also important. Whether it’s smiling at a cashier, offering help to someone, or simply being kind, these small acts spread positivity. This past weekend, someone helped me load a heavy piece of backer board into my cart. That small gesture made my day. Encouragement and kindness go a long way—not just for yourself, but for those around you. If you enjoy social activities, you can combine them with exercise. Join a running club, play on a sports team, or do something active while connecting with others. Wherever we can spread kindness—like glitter—we help everyone around us maintain a positive attitude and cultivate a better outlook on life. Thanks, and I’ll see you on the mat!  

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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 a 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!