2 weeks = 7 classes
7 classes = 11.5 hours (or more if I stay as late as I have been after class these days)
Overall I feel like I am ready. I know my basics, I know my kata, and bunkai is coming along nicely. The trick for me will be to keep my mental and physical focus in check during the test.
Mentally:
- Don’t let anyone ‘yipping’ at me get under my skin
- Be determined, not frustrated
- Stay in the moment during bunkai
Physically:
- Slow down and focus on the rhythm of the kata
- Take my time, don’t rush through everything
- Breathe
Hangetsu Update:
I'm happy to say I have finally made peace with this Kata. It is still not my favourite, but I’ve learned to co-exist with it.
Great post. You sound prepared and confident. :) Good luck on your test!
ReplyDeleteYou sound like you know what you're doing. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteBest of training to you for those last classes / practice sessions before your test! I think the mental focus is the hardest thing leading up to the test. Staying positive, not letting critiques get you down...that kind of thing. At least it is for me. Mind over matter!
ReplyDeleteYou'll be great :-)
ReplyDeleteThanks to all of you for the words of encouragement. As the days go by, I am realizing that the little imperfections are not going to fail me - I just need to get up there and do what I do every class - pay attention, do what I'm told and show my instructors I deserve the rank of Shodan.
ReplyDeleteIt's the anticipation that's killing me!
Just remember - the test is 90% mental.
ReplyDeleteControl the 90% and the remaining 10% will take care of itself.
s.