Tackling the "I Don't Feel Like It" Mentality

At Infinity Martial Arts, we train students to be physically strong and mentally tough. But there’s one challenge every athlete—no matter their skill level—faces at some point: the "I don’t feel like it" mentality.

Whether it’s getting ready for class, finishing a school assignment, or practicing a new skill, motivation isn’t always there when we need it. The truth? Success isn’t about waiting to feel ready—it’s about showing up and doing the work, even when it’s hard. 🌟

This week, we’re focusing on how to push through reluctance, build mental resilience, and turn "I don’t feel like it" into "I did it!"

Why Pushing Through Matters

Even things we love—like martial arts—can feel like a chore sometimes. Kids juggle school, training, home responsibilities, and social activities, and it’s normal to feel unmotivated once in a while.

But learning to push through those moments of reluctance builds skills that last a lifetime:

✔ Emotional Strength – Learning to do things even when we don’t "feel like it" helps kids develop a strong, disciplined mindset.
✔ Resilience – Challenges will come, but the ability to push past obstacles and keep going is what separates champions from the average.
✔ Discipline & Commitment – Sticking to a routine teaches students that hard work leads to results, even when motivation fades.

👊 First Steps to Overcoming the "I Don’t Feel Like It" Mentality

The first step in overcoming reluctance is acknowledging that it’s normal—even the best athletes, artists, and professionals have days when they don’t feel like putting in the work. What matters is how you respond!

✔ Recognize how you feel. It’s okay to be tired, frustrated, or unmotivated—but don’t let it stop you.
✔ Remind yourself why you started. Think about your goals—earning your next belt, improving your skills, or getting stronger. Every class, every drill, and every rep is a step toward that goal.
✔ Take action. Sometimes the hardest part is just getting started. The moment you begin, you break through the mental resistance.

💪 Willpower is Like a Muscle—Train It!

Did you know that willpower works just like a muscle? The more you use it, the stronger it gets!

✔ Every time you push through reluctance, you train your mind to be more disciplined.
✔ Every time you commit to something hard, you build mental toughness that carries over into school, friendships, and future challenges.
✔ Every time you finish a task even when you didn’t want to, you prove to yourself that you can do it—and that builds confidence!

Building discipline isn’t about always feeling motivated—it’s about taking action even when you don’t feel like it.

🏡 Parents, Here’s How You Can Help!

Kids need support and guidance as they develop discipline and resilience. Here are a few ways to help them stay accountable:

✔ Frame responsibilities as part of a bigger goal. Helping at home, practicing martial arts, and doing schoolwork aren’t just tasks—they build character, leadership, and success.
✔ Emphasize respect and gratitude. Contributing at home isn’t just about chores—it’s about showing appreciation for the support kids receive from parents, teachers, and coaches.
✔ Encourage small wins. Instead of focusing on finishing an entire task, help kids focus on taking one small step at a time.

By reinforcing these values, parents help kids develop the mindset of a leader—someone who shows up, steps up, and doesn’t back down from challenges.

🎯 This Week’s Challenge: Take Action!

Next time you feel like saying “I don’t feel like it,” stop and ask yourself:

🔥 What’s one small action I can take right now? Even a small step (putting on your uniform, stretching, starting your homework) creates momentum.
🔥 How will I feel once I push through and get it done? Accomplishment feels better than regret.

Train your mind like you train your body, and watch how strong you become! 💥

Let’s turn every “I don’t feel like it” into “I DID IT!” 💪