It’s easy to jump from one goal to the next without stopping to ask, “How far have I come?” But at Excel Martial Arts, we believe progress isn’t just about moving forward—it’s about understanding what you’ve learned, how you’ve grown, and who you’re becoming.
As we move into a new quarter, now is the ideal time to pause, reflect and reset. This isn’t about being hard on yourself or ticking boxes—it’s about celebrating your journey and refocusing with purpose.
We often associate progress with outcomes—belts earned, weight lost, goals hit. But at Excel, we teach that progress is also about mindset. It’s found in the way you show up to class when you don’t feel like it. It’s the moment you support someone else through a challenge. It’s the quiet confidence that builds every time you push through discomfort.
Growth happens when we slow down and ask:
What did I learn from this? What do I want to take forward with me?
Here are three powerful lessons reflection brings to light:
Students often overlook their own progress. You might think, “I’m not where I want to be yet.” But have you noticed how your focus has improved? That your kicks are cleaner? Or that you’ve started believing in yourself more? That’s real progress.
Confidence grows not from being perfect—but from recognising how far you’ve come.
Every struggle on the mat—every time you felt frustrated or thought of quitting—is part of building mental resilience. These moments aren’t setbacks. They’re strength training for your mindset.
We don’t just train the body at Excel. We train the mind.
Reflection also reminds us of the people, opportunities, and moments that helped us. Practising gratitude keeps you grounded, especially when things get tough. It’s why we encourage our students to acknowledge their progress—and the support around them.
To get the most out of reflection, make it something you practise regularly—not just once a quarter. Here’s how:
✅ Take 5 minutes after class – Write down one thing you learned, one thing that challenged you, and one thing you’re proud of.
✅ Set a weekly check-in – Sunday evenings are a great time to check in with your goals.
✅ Share your reflections – Talk to a teacher, parent, or training partner. Growth happens faster when we talk about it.
At Excel, reflection is built into everything we do. From our Life Talks and Creeds, to the way we celebrate milestones, we help students of all ages learn how to grow on and off the mat.
So whether you’re a parent supporting your child’s journey, a teen learning to believe in yourself, or an adult working towards your black belt—know that we’re here, every step of the way.
Because when we reflect together, we grow together.
And when we grow, we Excel in Life.
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Excel Academy, Longacre Way, Sothall, Sheffield
S20 3FS