Welcome back to another issue of Marginal Gains

This week i’m sharing an idea from Wing Chun that can help you deal with whatever life throws at you.

He froze as another punch came towards him.

In panic he threw out his right hand to block the punch. It smashed against his arm. Shaking his body from the impact.

2 weeks later he was guiding punches away with ease.

It was difficult for me to get a punch through.

I was amazed at the growth in confidence.

He'd gone from being a deer in headlights trapped in a boxing ring, to being able to confidently deal with what was coming at him.

What changed?

"Become comfortable in chaos."

This is what Sifu said to him after his first 3 rounds. The rounds where he felt paralyzed by panic.

"Become comfortable in chaos. If you can stay calm in the ring when punches are coming at you, you'll be able to deal with anything"

2 weeks later he was learning to become comfortable in the chaos. He was unfazed by the punches.

Responding not reacting.

There were points where he did panic and react. But mostly, he had understood what Sifu said and was practicing calmness in the chaos.

When I first heard Sifu's words, they hit me hard and sank deep.

It's a powerful analogy for life.

Become comfortable in chaos.

Life is chaos.

Not everything will go to plan.

But if you learn to stay calm when everything is coming at you from all directions, you'll be better equipped to handle whatever life throws your way.

So how do you stay comfortable in chaos?

I've been doing Wing Chun Kung Fu for over 12 years and what I've learnt is it's about staying centred and present.

Responding in your time instead of reacting to the speed of what's being thrown at you.

It doesn't happen overnight.

It needs to be trained.

As Bruce Lee says "Knowledge is not enough, you must apply".

When chaos comes at you, It's a perfect opportunity to stay centred.

You're not going to be perfect.

You will make mistakes but it's through the mistakes that you learn to get better at it.

My challenge to you:

At the end of a stressful day, spend 5 minutes reflecting on this question:

Was I responding or reacting to what happened

to me?

Try it out and let me know if you find it useful.

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Every Sunday I share small simple tips to help you become your best self.

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Check out our previous issues here

Until next week,

Stay Thriving,

Shoaib.