In the year 2021, Taekwondo was a daunting experience. I started in secondary one without any prior experience. However, during each weekly training session, I developed new friendship and bonded with my new friends as we struggled to learn and memorize each pattern together. TKD has pushed me out of my comfort zone, and has made me a resilient and strong individual.

Not only did Taekwondo teach me to have a stronger sense of discipline, it has also developed my critical thinking and time management skills. For example, it is no easy feat to be punctual for the training due to little wriggle room to rush from class to the training hall. This is a challenge stressor that motivates me to strive even harder to think critically how to get to the training hall in time.

Another important aspect that is learnt in Taekwondo is mutual respect, be it towards teammates, coaches or even our training venue. I consider respect to be an important virtue as it has to be earned and expressed in order to convey it to others. I am grateful that I have learned to show respect.

The belt-ranking system in Taekwondo drives me to want to do well in each belt-rank assessment. The joy of sharing, working toward the belt-rank with my classmates and finally attaining it motivates us to work more deeply together for the next goal. Thus, fostering our teamwork and relationship.

Overall, I feel that Taekwondo has really enable me to grow and prosper with a better character through all the virtues taught alongside the physical training. I have thoroughly enjoyed my three years journey in Taewkondo and am thankful for everything that I have benefitted from it.