I want to preface this entry by saying that, yes, it is absolutely important and OK to have your own specific, selfish goals in training. In fact, we all do, and it’s both healthy and normal!
With that said, the Tragedy of the Commons is a situation in which individuals take from a common resource, without any consideration of others or the future — basically an “I’m gonna get mine” attitude.
The paradox of combat sports is that we compete as individuals, but we need others to help us prepare.
If we only consider how we can maximize what we take from the environment, it is possible that there won’t be much to go around after awhile. This behavior leads to a negative feedback loop and eventual collapse.
I’ve seen this happen at gyms, actually. It’s not a pretty sight.
However, if we also consider what we can give to the environment, and invest both in ourselves and those around us, then a positive feedback loop is achieved and we can actually end up getting more than we gave.
Here at The North Star, we are fortunate to have so many awesome students at the academy, and so many people that come with both the intention of improving themselves and improving those around them.
So, why do I bring this up in the first place?
Well, sometimes it’s hard to show up for ourselves. Sometimes we’re tired, we’re sore, or we’re just plain lazy 🙂 I know I can feel like that often.
On days like these, don’t show up for yourself. Show up for everyone else. Because they are showing up for you every day. It’s what makes special places, special.
And, as always, if you ever need anything specific, that’s what the coaches are here for. Make sure to ask so we can help!