Level 2.89 - Expectations

Level Your Life - [The Level of Expectations] [2.89]

Expectations

Everyone´s performance will invariably be influenced by expectations of results.

Should you expect a particular outcome ? The samurai warrior would tell you : "Expect nothing, but be ready for anything." This advice sounds counterintuitive , but in our experience, we have found this concept to be quite helpful.

Do you know the difference between a good performance and a bad one ( or a good day and a bad day)? It´s very simple: good performances always happen when you have no expectations , let your activity unfold and trust things will work out.

You can then relax and focus on the series of actions you will carry out, the little things you can control. Bad performances , on the other hand happen when you try to control the end-result and have high expectations. Trying to control what you can´t  - the finished product- causes anxiety and tension.

The Chinese symbols for expectation show the enjoyment of someone watching the rising and setting of the moon it is natural arc across the sky. If you can flow with nature´s organic process as you enjoy your work fully in the moment, you will truly be fulfilled and you will feel successful in everything you do.

If you must expect something, we remind you that if you prepare well and execute all the little things brilliantly, you can expect (!) good things to happen,that you will do well and experience personal satisfaction and joy from your performance. "But I want to win,"  you say. You will win if you refuse to expect to win. Think about it ! Know this: if you let go of the need to win, you will be victorious.

Declaration: I focus on my preparation and the process of executing my performance plan; therefore I can expect the best to happen, whatever it may be.

Reflection: Thinking about my past performances, what expectations did I have and how did they affect the outcome ? What expectations am I holding on to for a future performance, and how are they impacting my focus and my nervous system ?

[paraphrased and inspired by Spirit of the Dancing Warrior]

Level 3.27 - Readiness

Level Your Life - [The Level of Readiness] [3.27]

Readiness


If one is not ready, no forward movement is possible.
There is an old asian saying: When the student is ready, the teacher appears." The truth is, the teacher was always available but the student wasn´t ready to notice.

Coaches get frustrated and impatient with their athletes who become complaces and make little effort to improve. Parents become intolerant of their children who do not seem motivated to work diligently.CEOs in major corportations wonder why certain staff are restistant to change and growth. In all of these cases, it is helpful to  understand that it´s not the teaching per se but rather the student who is no ready.All one can do in such a situation is to provide an environment in which others are not threatened and can grow, learn and expand at their own natural pace - when they are, indeed, ready.

In the Art of War, Sun Tzu mentions that a crucial rule of combat is not co count on opponents not showing up , but to instead have ways to be ready to deal with them when they do.If you are not ready, you miss the opportunity in the moment to grow, advance and succeed. The Teacher will be there when you are ready.
We suggest you leave no stone unturned in your pursuit of the extraordinary in your life. This means placing yourself in a position to quickly respond to new learning, new opportunities and new possibilities. If you fail at something , know that the obstacke may be as simple as a lack of readiness.Through kindness, respect and patience you can accelrate the process of becoming ready.



Declaration: I do all i can to place myself in position to strike and get what I like.
I am ready, eager and able to advance in this life.

Reflection: What are some examples from my past when I wasn´t ready to go forward and how could I have changed that for better results? What one thing can I do today to position myself to be readier tomorrow for personal advanced in sports,work and life ?







[paraphrased and inspired by Spirit of the Dancing Warrior]