Week # Something

[Lisa Clark]

April is a new start. First step is to take stock. I have been avoiding entering the numbers into my spreadsheet. I knew the sprained thumb, stomach flu, and hip injury took a lot out of me last month. The numbers were sure to reflect it. Tonight I faced my the spreadsheet and was surprised to find encouragement.

I was encouraged because as I entered the numbers they were more motivating than deflating. I did how much despite the challenges? I am awesome! I have lost 15 pounds since the kickoff, some old fears, and a huge portion of unnecessary clutter. I have gained muscle, strength, confidence, perspective, a kiai worth yelling, exciting travel plans, and more yet to be discovered. That said, here are my numbers so far...

 

	Pushups	Crunches	Starblocks Kata	9-10 Kata	Seisan	Seiuchin	Miles	Acts of Kindness
Expected	18600	18600	372	372	372	372	372	124
Achieved	16708	17038	324	334	190	195	212.9	296
Deficit	1892	1562	48	38	182	177	159.2	-172

 

Hmm. I thought I would be lacking more push ups. Miles, meditation, readings, and journal are pretty much on par with expectations. I did not expect to be ahead on Acts of Kindness or so behind in crunches and kata. It is still early though. Numbers can be overcome. I've decided to do a little extra every day. I have already been gaining by doing a little extra each day, and plan to continue doing the same until the deficit is overcome. Now that that's decided, I'm focusing on other things.

Rumble Valley is coming up. Not much of a competitor myself, and not one who values trophies, it surprises me to find I am really looking forward to the tournament. I want to bring the gold to OUR dojo. Stiff competitors though. Much to practice... Even more to practice before the KIAI Grand Nationals in July. Now that's exciting! Pennsylvania is steeped in history that I am itching to explore. The Isshinryu family will be there too?! Is it July yet?

Readings have been slow as waiting feels. The books are heavy subjects. They are also immensely helpful. When numbers or stomach flu or a bad day at work prove disheartening, the meditative readings provide perspective. I look forward to the nightly ritual of quiet reflection. They have become a priority for daily sanity as much as for UBBT goals.

Decluttering my life and physical living space has become a similar priority. I set it as a UBBT goal because it is a necessary, black-belt-level challenge. It hasn't been easy.  In point of fact, it has been tediously difficult. And the clutter is only partially diminished and somewhat organized! Lots more to do to kick this lifelong habit. Starting tonight as I get organized for the big week ahead.