Early mornings have become a way of life for me now.
In order for me to keep up with everything... pushups, situps, mileage weight lifting, forms, kicks, etc the best time for me is before work.
What I mean by best time, is the likelyhood of stuff getting done is early morning, it does not mean its the best time in an affectionate way....4:30 in the morning is the best time to stay in bed!
I have found trying to find and stick to a new routine has been difficult but something worth pursuing. That being said, I strongly believe your routine has to be adaptable for things that come up in life on a daily basis or an event that is coming up that is planned ahead.
For instance, lets say I slept in today , OK...actually I did sleep in today.
Now what? Does that mean my workout is scratched for today?
What I like to do is stay positive and before I tackle any thing in the morning is set up a new game plan for the day. I know what I need to get done, now I just have to be creative and adapt my time accordingly.
Routine is important, however, if the routine is so set in stone that even a minor disruption can upset it, the routine is not healthy.
You can easily find you fall into a negative state of mind and stress yourself out if things do not go according to your plan.
As much as routine is important to accomplish ones goals just as important is the ability to adapt through flexibility and versatility.
JC Masterson, Silent River Kung Fu, Alberta, Canada
Friday, May 29, 2009
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Support and Connection
This past couple of weeks have been difficult at best. I have pulled a lat/shoulder muscle which is aggravated by push ups and just trying to build a new training routine around a full time job has been challenging.
Getting to the evening classes hasn't been a problem but I have found myself a little unprepared. I always go with a theme in mind and set the class up in that direction. This week was no different, however, I found myself exhausted and trying to decide at the last minute how I would structure the class for the evening.
Funny thing, I was looking around to pick someone to do the warmup when at that very moment Sifu Davies walked up and offered to conduct the warmup focusing on the horsestance. Shortly after Sifu Prince approached me about the speed drills he had mentioned to me earlier and wanted to demonstrate.
First, it so happened this would compliment the fitness aspect of the curriculum, perfect.
Secondly, more important was the fact that these two individuals gave me the support I needed when I needed it the most. I did not realize this until afterwards. I had a sense of relief, enthusiasm and a feeling of connection with other Blackbelts who were supportive when it really counted.
I tend to do things on my own, quietly chugging away and this works fine when you are riding a wave and everything is going according to plan.
When plans and limbs get derailed being a loaner has its drawbacks.
I opened my eyes and realized I am not alone and this is my way of saying thanks.
I know both Sifus would tell me they were just doing what they like to do and it was no big deal.
They just made me realize I do appreciate support whatever way it comes and it gave me a feeling of connection again to my peers.
Sifu Masterson, Silent River Kung Fu, Alberta Canada
Getting to the evening classes hasn't been a problem but I have found myself a little unprepared. I always go with a theme in mind and set the class up in that direction. This week was no different, however, I found myself exhausted and trying to decide at the last minute how I would structure the class for the evening.
Funny thing, I was looking around to pick someone to do the warmup when at that very moment Sifu Davies walked up and offered to conduct the warmup focusing on the horsestance. Shortly after Sifu Prince approached me about the speed drills he had mentioned to me earlier and wanted to demonstrate.
First, it so happened this would compliment the fitness aspect of the curriculum, perfect.
Secondly, more important was the fact that these two individuals gave me the support I needed when I needed it the most. I did not realize this until afterwards. I had a sense of relief, enthusiasm and a feeling of connection with other Blackbelts who were supportive when it really counted.
I tend to do things on my own, quietly chugging away and this works fine when you are riding a wave and everything is going according to plan.
When plans and limbs get derailed being a loaner has its drawbacks.
I opened my eyes and realized I am not alone and this is my way of saying thanks.
I know both Sifus would tell me they were just doing what they like to do and it was no big deal.
They just made me realize I do appreciate support whatever way it comes and it gave me a feeling of connection again to my peers.
Sifu Masterson, Silent River Kung Fu, Alberta Canada
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Work Ethic
This has been my first week at my new job and it is a very different world.
These past days have been all about trying to figure out a new routine in a working environment that is foreign to me.
My background has always been blue collar, out in the bush or in a shop environment with grease and oil.
My new position is in the government (as an evil Aviation Inspector!) and this environment is quite the opposite. I am new and quite frankly I don't know a thing!
I don't even know how to properly answer the phone and introduce myself...but what I do know is good old fashion work ethic and how to display respect for those who have the experience and have come before me.
I rely heavily on this because I need to earn the trust and respect of my senior colleagues to show me the way around Aviation regulations.
So what is good work ethic? I am glad you asked...
Everyone says its common sense but sometimes I think some reminders are helpful.
Show up a little bit early or a least on time, all the time.
make sure your uniform, I mean your attire is clean and well kept.
Greet people in the morning or bow every chance you get using eye contact.
Show enthusiasm when some one takes the time to help you with something and a comment of thanks goes along way.
Come to class with all your gear or make sure you have paper and pencil in hand to take notes, don't expect someone to supply you with something you should have at the ready.
Apply yourself with focus after given direction, goofing around and unrelated chit chat wastes everybody's time and is disrespectful to your Sifu..I mean supervisor.
I may have crossed from work to kung fu but it was only to remind myself that as a new guy or rookie I still have my work ethic to offer even if I don't have the skill yet. This too, goes for a student in the school.
Lead by example and show good etiquette and work ethic.
You will shine in the eyes of your Sifu( and by no means am I talking about myself, you want to catch the eye of Master Brinker as a diamond in the rough) You will reap the benefit of your hard work and this character quality will benefit the young individual who takes it into adulthood and their budding professional lives.
Okay, I am done lecturing, I just think as a school some basic conduct gets lax and a little reminder is good once in awhile, for me too.
JC Masterson, Silent River Kung Fu, Alberta, Canada
These past days have been all about trying to figure out a new routine in a working environment that is foreign to me.
My background has always been blue collar, out in the bush or in a shop environment with grease and oil.
My new position is in the government (as an evil Aviation Inspector!) and this environment is quite the opposite. I am new and quite frankly I don't know a thing!
I don't even know how to properly answer the phone and introduce myself...but what I do know is good old fashion work ethic and how to display respect for those who have the experience and have come before me.
I rely heavily on this because I need to earn the trust and respect of my senior colleagues to show me the way around Aviation regulations.
So what is good work ethic? I am glad you asked...
Everyone says its common sense but sometimes I think some reminders are helpful.
Show up a little bit early or a least on time, all the time.
make sure your uniform, I mean your attire is clean and well kept.
Greet people in the morning or bow every chance you get using eye contact.
Show enthusiasm when some one takes the time to help you with something and a comment of thanks goes along way.
Come to class with all your gear or make sure you have paper and pencil in hand to take notes, don't expect someone to supply you with something you should have at the ready.
Apply yourself with focus after given direction, goofing around and unrelated chit chat wastes everybody's time and is disrespectful to your Sifu..I mean supervisor.
I may have crossed from work to kung fu but it was only to remind myself that as a new guy or rookie I still have my work ethic to offer even if I don't have the skill yet. This too, goes for a student in the school.
Lead by example and show good etiquette and work ethic.
You will shine in the eyes of your Sifu( and by no means am I talking about myself, you want to catch the eye of Master Brinker as a diamond in the rough) You will reap the benefit of your hard work and this character quality will benefit the young individual who takes it into adulthood and their budding professional lives.
Okay, I am done lecturing, I just think as a school some basic conduct gets lax and a little reminder is good once in awhile, for me too.
JC Masterson, Silent River Kung Fu, Alberta, Canada
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Days like These
Its days like today where taking a deep breathe and staring at a blank wall for a few seconds is all I need to regroup myself.
This week has been building into a fury of change, activity, good emotions and bad emotions.
Its easy to feel overwhelmed and when too much is coming at you at once, its hard to deal with everything rationally and with proper thought.
Its like the walls are closing in and daggers are coming down from the ceiling...panic!
A deep breathe and putting myself on the outside looking in helps me to prioritize issues and deal with them in a logical manner.
This means take care of myself first so I can better handle other issues.
No matter how busy I get, time must be made to keep me healthy, physically, mentally and spiritually.
That is my priority in order to be as effective, productive and as caring as possible.
Deep breathe, blank stare.
JC Masterson, Silent River Kung Fu, Stony Plain , Alberta
This week has been building into a fury of change, activity, good emotions and bad emotions.
Its easy to feel overwhelmed and when too much is coming at you at once, its hard to deal with everything rationally and with proper thought.
Its like the walls are closing in and daggers are coming down from the ceiling...panic!
A deep breathe and putting myself on the outside looking in helps me to prioritize issues and deal with them in a logical manner.
This means take care of myself first so I can better handle other issues.
No matter how busy I get, time must be made to keep me healthy, physically, mentally and spiritually.
That is my priority in order to be as effective, productive and as caring as possible.
Deep breathe, blank stare.
JC Masterson, Silent River Kung Fu, Stony Plain , Alberta
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Its Personal Now
Next month looks like things are changing for me.
I will be starting a new job which entails an early morning travel to Edmonton everyday.
My husband and I are essentially going to be switching roles. He will stay at home more than I as I take on the bureaucratic logistical world of aviation from Monday to Friday.
It will be good for us financially as a household and a step up for me career wise..however..
I have to admit I am not completely excited.
The challenge for me is to stay grounded. Time management is going to be paramount to keep balance in my life. I dread the thought of becoming another desk jockey caught up in a world of mediocrity, coming home too tired to have fun with my family or workout.
I reflect on what the UBBT means to me and how it has become a valuable tool.
So far it has been easy street, working part time, my schedule has been flexible enough to shift things around week by week to suit my needs and playschool has given me extra time to train.
That is all gone now and the real test will begin.
I am scared, apprehensive, maternally guilt ridden and I don't want the downtown office tower to suck the life out of me.
This is my challenge, this is my test.
I will be starting a new job which entails an early morning travel to Edmonton everyday.
My husband and I are essentially going to be switching roles. He will stay at home more than I as I take on the bureaucratic logistical world of aviation from Monday to Friday.
It will be good for us financially as a household and a step up for me career wise..however..
I have to admit I am not completely excited.
The challenge for me is to stay grounded. Time management is going to be paramount to keep balance in my life. I dread the thought of becoming another desk jockey caught up in a world of mediocrity, coming home too tired to have fun with my family or workout.
I reflect on what the UBBT means to me and how it has become a valuable tool.
So far it has been easy street, working part time, my schedule has been flexible enough to shift things around week by week to suit my needs and playschool has given me extra time to train.
That is all gone now and the real test will begin.
I am scared, apprehensive, maternally guilt ridden and I don't want the downtown office tower to suck the life out of me.
This is my challenge, this is my test.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Re-evaluate
I was out of town for a couple of days last week and when I came back I did my usual routine of catching up on emails and local news. This included reading the local paper and I was pleasantly surprised to find a 3 page write up on Silent River Kung Fu, more specifically on Master Brinker and the UBBT.
I also had the enjoyment of watching the video he forwarded of the demo that was performed at the Trade show this last weekend.
It made me proud to be associated with the SRKF organization and the person responsible.
This prompted me to review my requirements and goals. Feeling bad about missing some training because of work I felt the need to drive harder. I spent some time trying to figure out what I could add and where I could fit in the extra stuff.
After a little frustration I realized I think I was missing the point.
If you are honest with yourself and challenge yourself the goals you set should be obtainable.
I did not put everything on my plate for a reason.
I would rather be able to put 110 percent into 10 goals the 80 percent into 20 goals.
There are some basic philosophies that are attached to the UBBT and the concept of a Black Belt and one of them is Quality..another is staying in the moment.
It is more important to focus on the Quality of what you do and in order to do so, a person must stay in the moment.
This includes what you do outside of the Kwoon. I try very hard to bring this to all that I do.
So even though I may be out of town and working or doing other things that are not martial arts related, I think it is vital to have that mentality with everything you do and with everyone that you interact with.
This is what I need to keep in front of me at all times.
I know the days are coming when I will have more time for myself and then I can pursue more things I want to do but in the meantime I will take what I am learning from SRKF and the UBBT and apply it to all aspects of my life.
By the way, nice job on the Demo!
JC Masterson, Silent River Kung Fu, Alberta, Canada
I also had the enjoyment of watching the video he forwarded of the demo that was performed at the Trade show this last weekend.
It made me proud to be associated with the SRKF organization and the person responsible.
This prompted me to review my requirements and goals. Feeling bad about missing some training because of work I felt the need to drive harder. I spent some time trying to figure out what I could add and where I could fit in the extra stuff.
After a little frustration I realized I think I was missing the point.
If you are honest with yourself and challenge yourself the goals you set should be obtainable.
I did not put everything on my plate for a reason.
I would rather be able to put 110 percent into 10 goals the 80 percent into 20 goals.
There are some basic philosophies that are attached to the UBBT and the concept of a Black Belt and one of them is Quality..another is staying in the moment.
It is more important to focus on the Quality of what you do and in order to do so, a person must stay in the moment.
This includes what you do outside of the Kwoon. I try very hard to bring this to all that I do.
So even though I may be out of town and working or doing other things that are not martial arts related, I think it is vital to have that mentality with everything you do and with everyone that you interact with.
This is what I need to keep in front of me at all times.
I know the days are coming when I will have more time for myself and then I can pursue more things I want to do but in the meantime I will take what I am learning from SRKF and the UBBT and apply it to all aspects of my life.
By the way, nice job on the Demo!
JC Masterson, Silent River Kung Fu, Alberta, Canada
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Exhausted
So I am beat.
I finally put my son to bed and I have nothing left. I wonder where he gets his endless energy from, then it dawned on me, these little guys listen to their bodies. He plays hard and then out of the blue he shuts down. Anywhere at anytime these little guys can power snooze. It seems when he does this, an hour later, he is fully charged and up and running 110 percent!
I thought, wouldn't it be great if we could get away with that too. 3 o'clock in the afternoon in the middle of the job just prop yourself up for 30 minutes and have a little snooze. You would feel refreshed and back online ...all systems go. Maybe we could even get away with a couple of naps a day, wherever and whenever needed.
If you could invent a sleep tank gauge then you could justify all the stops you need to make in order to refuel...especially if your an older vintage like myself!
JC Masterson, Silent River Kung Fu, Alberta, Canada
I finally put my son to bed and I have nothing left. I wonder where he gets his endless energy from, then it dawned on me, these little guys listen to their bodies. He plays hard and then out of the blue he shuts down. Anywhere at anytime these little guys can power snooze. It seems when he does this, an hour later, he is fully charged and up and running 110 percent!
I thought, wouldn't it be great if we could get away with that too. 3 o'clock in the afternoon in the middle of the job just prop yourself up for 30 minutes and have a little snooze. You would feel refreshed and back online ...all systems go. Maybe we could even get away with a couple of naps a day, wherever and whenever needed.
If you could invent a sleep tank gauge then you could justify all the stops you need to make in order to refuel...especially if your an older vintage like myself!
JC Masterson, Silent River Kung Fu, Alberta, Canada
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