In the quest for success and fulfilment in both our personal and professional lives, we can occasionally find inspiration from unpredicted sources—for me, that’s my journey into Muay Thai. This combat sport is often referred to as The Art of Eight Limbs because it makes use of eight points of contact—punches, elbows, knees and kicks. The principles of this ancient art have translated into all facets of my life, offering valuable insights that fuel the motivation I bring with me to my role at IBAO.
One of the main motivators behind this martial art is the path of self-improvement. Every time I’m in the gym training, it’s an opportunity to perfect my technique, push past my limits and develop as a fighter and an individual.
I joined the gym mostly to disprove my brother’s lack of faith in my physical capability, but now I’ve passed two level tests and have acquired my blue and red shorts—indicating that I’ve reached sparring level. To say I’ve improved is an understatement. I went from a mindset of Muay Thai as an extracurricular activity to training for a potential amateur fight.
Muay Thai is a never-ending learning process. I’m constantly refining techniques, seeking feedback and remaining open to new approaches. On the surface it may look like a simplified martial art, but when you’re in the gym training and expanding on the basics like throwing a swing kick, you’ll learn that you have to pivot and elevate your base foot to help rotate your hip. Having a good understanding of the basics only takes you so far. It’s the mindset of wanting to learn the intricacies and nuances that will aid your progression. In the workplace, fostering a culture of continuous learning motivates people to acquire new skills and stay adaptable to changing circumstances.
Training demands perseverance. I encounter setbacks, face tough opponents and endure physical strain. I’m met with coaches who push me to do things I believe I can’t do. There are times at the end of class where I literally drop from physical exhaustion. Despite this, I remind myself that I’m better today than I was yesterday and hold onto the notion of progress. At the office, the ability to persist, adapt and maintain a positive attitude during difficult times, like through structural changes, helps overcome obstacles.
Engaging in a rigorous sport like Muay Thai relies on the support of others. Much of my progress is due to my brother and coaches taking the time to provide feedback. Similarly, the workplace benefits from building a supportive and collaborative atmosphere, one that encourages teamwork, empathy and mutual assistance, and creates a sense of belonging.
Acknowledging progress and celebrating victories, big or small, has kept my motivation high in my journey. Gaining my blue and now red shorts reflects the work I’ve put in and the discipline I’ve practiced. It’s through small victories that a path for continuous self-improvement is paved. In the office, recognizing and appreciating staff accomplishments creates a positive environment. Feeling appreciated for hard work encourages engagement and increases motivation.
Above all, my experience in Muay Thai has been driven by passion for the sport and a sense of purpose. At work, aligning personal passion and values with professional goals enhances motivation. When staff are passionate about their work and feel a sense of purpose in what they do, they become more engaged, productive and fulfilled.