To be a Black Belt, you need self control

This is a  exercise we have been discussing here at The Dojo with our youth students.  It was written in easy language so kids can understand.  We required this a long-term homework assignment to be read multiple (at least ten) times.  Students were also required to open a dialogue and talk  with parents/guardians about this important issue.  Parents: if you missed these classes at the school, please feel free to print out and practice this exercise now with your children.  It will help them realize when anger surfaces.  It will also give them tips to deal with it effectively.

For ages 6 and up

Anger is bad.  Anger is a choice.  Anger will get you nowhere.  Here are some things you must memorize to be a powerful person.  You need to demonstrate these to be a black belt!

Choose mastery! Know that you are in control of your thoughts and body, nobody else! Say out loud over and over again Mindful Action #13 “I am so strong that nothing can disturb my peace of mind.” A Black Belt is always in control.

Choose quiet! Don’t raise your voice.  If you yell, you cannot get help.  A Black Belt speaks slowly and softly to calm everybody down.  What would Yoda do?  He is so wise and strong that he doesn’t ever need to yell and hit.

Choose strength! Do twenty five of your best Black Belt push-ups when you get mad.  Breathe long, deep breaths.  Exercising makes you let go of anger and feel good!

Choose smart! -if you scream or hit or cry will that help you? Of course not!  That will only get you in trouble.  That will only get you picked on.  You will also get grounded, lose computer time, television, video games, toys and movie privileges.

Choose to win! – A winner doesn’t whine.  A winner has honor.  Remember that the best sports heroes have lost a lot of games!  A Black Belt has to fall to the mats 10,000 times!  You can’t really win without losing once in a while.

Choose happy! It is up to you to be in a good mood.  Only you can choose good or bad.  A Black Belt always tries to be in a good mood and make others smile.  Happiness is made by you alone!  Believe in yourself!  You can do it!

You can be a great role-model to others!  Lead by example and act like a black belt until you get there!

Todd Norcross- The Dojo Inc. 2009