Joy in the journey

I feel that I’m missing out on my children playing and laughing (or…screaming and fighting).

I don’t know about you, but since Covid and working from home, I’m finding it harder and harder to switch off from work when I finish for the day. I find that I am constantly in “planning” mode even after I’ve logged off.

I’ll come home and can’t help but think about what we’re doing later, or what’s for dinner, what jobs need doing etc etc.

However I had an epiphany the other day. And although I’ve heard of this before it seemed to strike harder this time (perhaps because it was more relevant).

There is joy in the journey and not the destination.

I have seen so many students over the years rushing to learn the next kata, or take the next grading. Even students that once they reach black belt they stop!

This mentality hinders you from finding joy and wonder in the little things.

When you’re trying to get somewhere, how much of your journey do you actually notice?

Are you in your own head - planning, or are you mindful of your surroundings? The architecture of buildings you pass, the quiet moments of nature, even other people on their own journeys.

Stop worrying about where you’re going. As long as you have a direction, go with the flow and enjoy the ride. Even if it seems boring, you never know what joy you might find wrapped up in it (much like kata).

The same can be said for karate. Stop focusing on when you’ll do your next grading, or when you will get your black belt. All of that will come. What’s more important are your small moments that bring joy (or pain). It’s these moments that you will remember when looking back at your experiences.

Jez