Is Martial Arts a Job or a Calling?

Do martial arts have to feel like a job? While consistent training and exercise are essential, the experience can be much more rewarding when approached with the right mindset. This article explores whether martial arts should feel like a job and how to make the most of your practice.

Training vs. Job Mentality

"Do something just to make ends meet, or should martial arts be more than a mere job?" asks the question. Martial arts are meant to strengthen the body, invigorate the spirit, and reveal the secrets of the soul. With a job mentality, you’re likely to achieve only what you put in and miss out on the true benefits of being a practitioner.

No Class Is Always Exciting

Not every class can be something you look forward to. There are days you’d rather stay in bed, feeling tired or not in the mood for the physical demands of training. I felt this way before many of my classes. However, I’ve never felt better or made more progress after attending a class rather than skipping it.

Is It Just a Class or a Lifestyle?

For martial arts to be meaningful, it must go beyond just going through the motions. If you are doing it solely to stay in shape, it may indeed feel like a job. But if you are passionate about the art or enjoy competing, it will never feel like a job. The true essence lies in the commitment and the dedication to make it part of your life.

Competition and Personal Growth

If your goal is to compete, martial arts will feel more like a calling than a job. The desire to improve, to push yourself, and to overcome challenges will keep you coming back for more. This mindset transforms training from a mere routine to a fulfilling experience.

Approaching Martial Arts with the Right Attitude

How you approach training can significantly impact your experience. If you see martial arts as just a job, you might miss out on the profound benefits it offers. A job is what you get paid for doing. Martial arts can and should be something that brings joy and satisfaction.

The Power of the Mind

Sometimes, the mind’s resistance can make a session feel challenging. But remember, your body often has a natural tendency to continue what it's trained to do. Regardless of your mindset before class, you will likely feel better after it. Your body knows the benefits, and its natural inclination is to seek them out.

Staying Motivated and Committed

If training feels like a job, it might be an indication that either martial arts is not right for you, or you are in an environment that does not suit your needs. Martial arts training can be tough, and many things in life worth pursuing have their challenges. However, martial arts should be something you actively seek to engage with.

Personal Investment and Authenticity

In my experience, missing classes significantly raises my stress level because it acts as a major stress reliever. Returning to training boosts my quality of life. Many others have echoed similar sentiments. The key is finding a dojo that “fits” you and a training method that aligns with your personal goals and mindset.

Conclusion

Martial arts can be a joyful and fulfilling part of your life. Whether it is a calling or a job, the choice is yours. Transform your training from a mundane routine to an exhilarating experience by embracing the right mindset and approach.

Should martial arts feel like a job or a calling? It depends on your perspective and mindset. With the right approach, it can bring immense personal growth and satisfaction.