In general,
optimists tend to overestimate the good and underestimate the bad. This is
known as optimism bias. At Zhang Sah we pride ourselves on cultivating
optimism. Some may say that's a bad thing to teach people to overestimate their
reality. Some say that a happy life is derived by keeping low expectations and
enjoying those rare occurrences when reality is better than what you expected.
I couldn't disagree more with that philosophy. Although, I agree that it is
difficult to teach people how to appreciate failure and losing. But just
because it's easier to live with low expectations doesn't mean that's more
fulfilling.
My teaching
philosophy is to continually raise expectations which leads one towards
success. In some instances this success is unattainable but the heights that it
takes you in the process is really what is truly fulfilling. At Zhang Sah there
is no destination for success. It is not earning your black belt. It is not
winning a competition. It is not about earning a scholarship for college. It is
not about graduating. It's not about earning a certain amount of money. It's
about being equipped to enjoy the journey of life. It's about expecting
yourself to progress along this path. Besides, within the anticipation of
success lies happiness.
Many question how
can we cultivate people to become optimistic. And how can we do this in the
face of so many negative realities. How is optimism maintained over time? The
answer is simple-Confidence!
Through rigorous
training students develop confidence. This is enabled by positive role models
who demonstrate care and enthusiasm for their progress. Confidence percolates
from the competencies and trustworthiness in the students capacity to perform
and practice with others. The optimistic outlook flows from here.
" Train hard-be
happy!"
