Written by I have a fear of failure about sparring. I often struggle and have a hard time sparring. It is the part of karate I most doubt myself. So many types of attacks and scenarios coming at me all at once. It is hard to react and counter so quickly. I try to not freeze up, or stop, or run. I just face it and try to fight back. It is difficult because it goes against my personality. I try to avoid fights and disagreements with other people everyday. Karate is a sport and this is part of the sport. I love karate enough to spar even when it is difficult for me.
The day of the test scares me mostly because of sparring. I know I can do all of the requirements of the challenge before the test. The weekly minutes of sparring help me to get more comfortable doing it. I am just afraid of failing the sparring part of the test. I know there is a possibility I may not pass the test but, if I don’t try then I have failed. I will never be a failure if I try. I will face my fear. I hope this year long process will prepare me for that day.
Thank you for sharing this. It is not easy to talk about our fears or worrying about failing. Trust in your training. We will be there to cheer you on and support you!