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Many martial artists suffer from what I call “what’s next” syndrome… That is, being overly focused on what (they imagine or wish) lies ahead. Being clear and focused on progress objectives is not, necessarily, a bad thing – it is good to have goals – but this way of thinking tends to have the unhealthy consequence of taking one away from the journey itself which, fundamentally, is what Budo is really about.

Whether it is learning a new technique or, say, kata, do you or your students have a default “on-to-the-next” approach?

It is natural, when you think about how twenty-fist century culture, especially in the West, conditions us to be constantly moving onto the next task. The systematic approach introduced to Judo (and subsequently adopted by the majority of modern martial arts systems worldwide) also tacitly encourages this mental model simply by virtue of its progressive nature and framework of milestone achievements, whether at kyu or dan level. However, only ever moving onto the next thing also means missing out on the important need to focus on the present and, equally importantly, opportunity to relish the milestones, even the minor ones.

Perseverance is key to progress and, as it can often be frustrating (even painful) it is hard earned. So why wouldn’t we celebrate the early victories, no matter how small? There is a school of thought that “real” progress is only derived from hardship and punishing endurance and, therefore, celebrating it is uncouth and, somehow, at odds with the austere purity that the “serious” practitioner should manifest. This is a fundamentally flawed and anachronistic view. Our context is contemporary and, accordingly, enjoying training, finding delight in making progress, and succeeding in acquiring new skills should be celebrated. 

So, make and take the time to celebrate both personal progress and, if you have them, your students’ wins, too. Whenever an objective is achieved, however modest, think of a way to commemorate it. Naturally, also devote time to acknowledging and marking the big wins — for example promotions or achievements in competition, where competition is a feature of your art – but do not make them the only thing you recognise. Progress is progress, after all. Celebrating achievements is not superfluous or self-gratifying it is a way for you to identify and reinforce the lessons learned, strengthen resolve for future success and, when shared, a great way to encourage and motivate others.

This article was inspired by “Celebrate to Win,” by Whitney Johnson, HBR 26 January 2022.