Gumption Traps

We are often presented with life lessons which provide us with opportunities to learn and grow. Sometimes the lessons are relatively small and easy to deal with, or may even pass by without our  awareness. Others can have the ability to stop us in our tracks quite abruptly. I recognize these as gumption traps as first described by author Robert Pirsig, and lessons with tons of potential. 

"Gumption is your initiative, your energy to move forward and your ability to do so with common sense and shrewdness. Gumption is the drive that pushes you to start a project and also the focus, clarity and motivation that carries you through until you finish it."

We have just barely begun the Year of the Tiger and I've already had a couple of obstacles placed in front of me. I really believe these happen for a reason. I can view them as roadblocks or I can take more of an inquisitive approach and recognize I have been gifted with potential lessons to be learned and further personal growth.

Chronic knees issues have caused me to have to adjust my desired level of daily training. I had a plan in mind. However I didn't confer with my knees and unfortunately they are not on board. I had to quickly listen to my body and adjust my expectations. Doing consistent daily physio exercises has helped with some minor improvements over the past year, but the consistent strain put on the knees and supporting muscles as I increased my training are creating additional strain and challenges. I am currently working on the 4 basic kicks and running through all of my forms daily, along with the IHC requirements. I am planning to gradually increase the reps slowly every couple of weeks. A couple steps forward, a couple steps back and maybe even a holding pattern now and then.

I also started the year with a full set of tools to draw from which is optimal for a successful project completion. In addition to my existing set of tools, other tools were made accessible and then removed creating a gumption trap. When this roadblock presented itself I found myself processing the information. There was some frustration at first, then a measure of understanding, and then some more processing. Thus creating internal gumption traps that carry self doubt and have the ability to reduce motivation. At the end of the day I have to ask myself "do I still want to complete this project? Do I have the gumption to push forward? I know in the end these obstacles are a path to completing a quality project and in the process a better version of myself through valuable lessons and experiences.

It has been suggested that I be aggressive to help achieve my goals. Aggressiveness and assertiveness in the typical sense are not natural traits for me. I do however have gumption and a quiet determination that I believe can serve me just as well. There is so much that I can accomplish with what I have and with what is available. I am reminding myself to not under value the tools already in my tool box.