Canadian Black Belt Academy - Tottenham

January Week 4: GOAL SETTING

“All who have accomplished great things have had a great aim, have fixed their gaze on a goal which was high, one which sometimes seemed impossible.”

– Orison Swett Marden

At Canadian Black Belt Academy Tottenham, we’re teaching our students the importance of setting and achieving goals. Using the example of breaking a board with a side kick, we’re showing how even the most challenging tasks can be achieved through dedication and focus.

Start with technique. A powerful side kick requires more than leg strength; it demands full-body coordination. Think of this as building your foundation—just like the support from your instructors and fellow students helps you grow stronger. Next, visualize your success. Picture yourself breaking the board with confidence. The more you see it in your mind, the more likely you are to achieve it.

Mastering a goal also requires focus. Keep your attention on the target—the center of the board. If you let distractions take over, you’ll lose power and precision. Finally, remember the importance of speed and decisiveness. Commit to your goal with determination, and take swift, purposeful action.

Ask yourself:

1. What goals do you want to set in Karate this year?
2. How does setting small goals lead to achieving big ones?
3. Can you help others accomplish their goals?

Let’s push past limits together—both on and off the mats. Success starts with a single step (or kick!).

– Kyoshi Jason Figliano, 6th Degree Black Belt