How Has Taekwondo Helped My Career?

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Taekwondo became my passion from a young age. I love it immensely, but it requires a lot of dedication, so it can be tricky sometimes - especially when I'm dragging myself to training on a cold winter evening. But one thing is for sure. It's taught me a lot!

Below I've listed traits I've inherited from my Taekwondo training and how I apply them to my work in legal recruitment outside the ring.

1. I compete with myself

Being an athlete has made me competitive in everything I do. Even last week, I found myself heavily involved in the office fantasy football competition, where my chances of winning are doubtful, to say the least! In recruitment, however, my competitive streak has allowed me to push myself and not be afraid to ask questions. Despite being a new starter, I want to keep up with my peers and adopt their market knowledge and skills. So then, one day, we can have some healthy competition.

2. I don't count sit-ups

A famous quote from Muhammid Ali- "I don't count sit-ups'' has always stuck with me. In training, I only start counting when it starts hurting because I have been taught that they're the ones that count. That's what makes you a ''champion." Simply turning up to the office doesn't count, but I will see results through hard work and dedication.

3. Motivation

After incorporating exercise into my day-to-day, I generally feel energised when I get to the office. I also tend to eat healthier and look after my overall well-being. Don't get me wrong, sometimes I have to drag myself to training, but once I'm there, it's game on. 👊 Most importantly, this time allows me to reset and have some me time outside of work.

4. Disipline & respect

Taekwondo has taught me an invaluable amount of discipline. I work hard and set myself goals. Although I am a fighter, martial arts heavily emphasises showing respect to others and being kind. This applies to all aspects of life and the people I meet through work. Small gestures such as saying, 'I hope you have a great week' can go a long way.

My master also taught me to never judge a book by its cover. His exact words were, ''never look at a white belt and immediately think you're the winner.'' That white belt could have previously been a master in another martial art. It is important to treat others as equals, and I like to think I treat everyone with the same respect as a result.

5. Confidence

Taekwondo has grown my confidence immensely. When I first started Taekwondo, it was because my dad got me into it after he never had the time to pursue it himself (instead, he was a hard gym-goer and Bruce Lee watcher). I used to get really nervous when it was time to fight, sometimes not wanting to show up. However, after many years of perseverance, I felt myself getting stronger physically and mentally. Then once I started seeing results, I began to fear less and trust myself more. Work hard, persevere, and you will see results.

Whether it be exercise, a hobby, or even self-care days, it is essential to take time out for YOU and learn what makes you click. This will, in turn, reflect on your work and mental health. So, even if this post has only encouraged a few people, do what you enjoy and do it well!