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Quitting—an easy way out in the face of difficulty, but a habit that can leave a lasting impact. In my years of teaching, I’ve yet to meet an adult who says, “I’m glad my parents let me quit when things got hard.” Instead, most adults regret having missed out on the rewards and skills that sticking with something brings.
When children and teens develop a habit of quitting, it becomes a comfortable escape that’s harder to break with time. If we allow young people to quit whenever something feels tough, we unintentionally teach them that challenges aren’t worth the effort. This can have lasting effects on their confidence, resilience, and grit—qualities that are essential not only in martial arts but in all areas of life.
My Personal Story
I’ll be the first to admit: I used to quit a lot when I was younger. At 13, I found martial arts, and for the first time, I was determined to stick with something, no matter what. It gave me purpose and helped me reshape my outlook on quitting. The growth I experienced—mentally, physically, and emotionally—was something I’d never felt before. Martial arts taught me that the difficult moments are where true growth happens.
Why Perseverance Matters for Kids, Teens, and Adults
For kids and teens, sticking with martial arts (or any activity) isn’t just about learning a skill—it’s about building a resilient mindset. Life will always present challenges, and by pushing through them, they learn to trust in their ability to overcome. Adults, too, often face the habit of quitting in areas like fitness and self-defense, where sticking it out can mean the difference between achieving goals and staying stagnant.
How We Can Break the Habit of Quitting
Whether you’re a parent encouraging your child or working on personal goals, here are some tips to help resist the urge to quit:
Set Small Goals: Achieving smaller milestones can build confidence and encourage perseverance.
Celebrate Effort Over Results: Recognizing hard work, regardless of outcome, helps build a positive association with trying.
Remember the “Why”: Keeping the bigger picture in mind can help you push through temporary obstacles.
At the House of Warriors, we believe in helping everyone build the strength to keep going, even when it’s tough. Let’s teach the next generation—and remind ourselves—that true success lies in not giving up.
Let’s make this a habit worth keeping.
Stay Strong,
Master Dave Tenedorio
The House of Warriors Team
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