Go the Extra Mile
When you are given the opportunity to face a new challenge, it can be tempting to try just hard enough to pass. For example, if you are going to have a test in class, but you think you know enough to get a good grade, you may not think it’s worth it to study. Some people have natural talents and skills, you may even learn so quickly that you can be a pretty good student without going the extra mile.
However, it is important to know passing and succeeding are not always the same thing. By going the extra mile, you may even surprise yourself! If you have been giving 50% of your effort, just imagine what you can do if you give 100%. You can be a better student, a better friend, and even a better martial artist.
What it Means to Be Your Best
Going the extra mile means trying your best. It can be practicing your martial art forms, studying in school, or simply being extra helpful to those around you. People who go the extra mile show the world that they are capable of doing more than what is expected of them. It is the key to being the best version of yourself.
Sometimes you may feel tired or you may not have the energy to do a little more work, and that’s ok. Going the extra mile means doing your best, but it’s important to know when you really did try your hardest with the tasks or challenges that come your way.
Why Should You Go the Extra Mile?
When you go the extra mile, you can feel good knowing that you tried your best. Think about those times you forgot an important martial arts form, or the times you were sure you could have gotten a better grade on your schoolwork. When you go the extra mile, you know you are reaching your full potential, so you don’t have to worry about regrets.
The people around you also notice those who go the extra mile. We think of those people as dependable, hard-working, and enthusiastic. By going the extra mile, you may even show your instructors or teachers that you’re ready to move on to the next level or lesson. You can progress faster, feel better, and have more confidence in your abilities.
Putting Your Best Foot Forward
Think about the times when you saw someone go the extra mile. Were you surprised? Did you admire or appreciate them? We all aspire to be the best version of ourselves, and sometimes we can feel disappointed or unhappy with ourselves when we know we could have done better. But it is never too late to try putting your best foot forward.
The next time someone gives you a task or challenge, try going the extra mile. It can be something big like an important exam, or something small like cleaning up after your martial arts practice. Whatever it may be, try putting in a little more effort. You won’t regret it!
