Self-motivation

[kozak]

I find it hard enough to motivate my students, then I got to motivate myself.I find it hard sometimes to do it. I would like to know from other instructors what gets you motivated?

[jakmak52]

I find it hard enough to motivate my students, then I got to motivate myself.I find it hard sometimes to do it. I would like to know from other instructors what gets you motivated?

To reflect on my own personal goals, both short and long term. What it takes to get where you're at. The opportunity and honor to pass on the art. They say you can't keep it till you give it away. It takes perserverence and tenacity to do what you do. Good luck to you...
:bow:

[DragonMind]

Something to be aware of is that motivation (or lack of) is contagious. If you are motivated it will show and your students will pick up on it. Very often when our students have a hard time getting motivated they are really reflecting our own attitudes.

If you're having trouble getting motivated any longer, its time to take inventory of what we're doing and why. Can you remember why you first started? Was it the art itself, or the propsect of learning something new? Can you identify something that might rekindle that original excitement?

[kmtsd]

Its normal to have periods of time when your are "less enthusiastic" than your norm. We are human. Remind yourself why you are doing this, why you love this, if all else fails remind yourself you need the exercise and remind yourself that martial arts is good for you -mind and body. You didn't get your blackbelt by quitting, so tough it out--- in another month or two or three things will change- new students, new attitudes, tournaments, etc...

As far as teaching class goes- try adding something you like to class (and also something your students can do) Stick to the curriculum, but for example: maybe you always liked forms- try teaching them blindfolded or to music. demonstrate for your students, then have them try...
maybe you like fighting or bags... add some drills to class. If you're excited the students will get excited and this will in turn fuel your motivation.

Good luck