When I had my first trial class at Pacific International Taekwondo, I didn’t want to go back. I know, off to a great start. But my mum encouraged me to go back again, saying it would be a “good experience” for me. And after a few training sessions, I found that she was right and I started to enjoy myself at each class.

I made new friends, learnt new techniques, and acquired countless bumps and bruises. From the training of Instructor Sean and Assistant Instructors Danielle and Josh, I learned how to defend myself and more than that, I learned the meaning of integrity, perseverance, and resilience.

3 years later, I found myself on the doorstep of Junior Black Belt grading. Part A of the grading was extremely nerve-wracking, and the three days of waiting for the results of Part A were even worse! I went to school during the day and to bed at night thinking about everything I had done and wondering whether it was enough to pass. I’m not joking when I say that every night between Part A (Sat) and the Result (Tue), I had dreams – or rather nightmares – about failing. Luckily, those dreams did not come true, and I found out I passed!

I was nervous for Part B, however less nervous than Part A. I struggled with my board break on jumping side kick, but on my third attempt, I managed to break it. I made it through the other board breaks, sparring and patterns and received my Junior Black Belt!

The car ride home after grading had me thinking about my whole Taekwondo journey, from the first time I stepped into the Albany Creek branch to when I had just walked out of the grading hall with my brand-new belt. I thought about all the skills I had learned over the years and all the goals I achieved.

Looking back, I never would have imagined that the trial class I almost didn’t return to would lead me to earning my Junior Black Belt. If you’re ever nervous, struggling, or wondering if you’re good enough, please be encouraged in knowing that every obstacle is an opportunity to grow. The effort you put in now will become an achievement you’re proud of tomorrow. If you’re just starting your own journey, trust the process, keep showing up, and believe in yourself. Remember, every black belt was once a white belt, and you never know what you can achieve until you try.