Control Corner 23 with Sifu Oscar: The Power of Thinking

Welcome to the Control Corner, your weekly dose of wisdom on mastering control in martial arts, health, and life. At Wah Lum, the flipped Chinese character for ‘Fire’ represents control—an idea central to everything we do. 

Let’s explore how focusing on what matters can help you reach your full potential.

Essentials: Throughout history, deep thinking has powered successful people. It’s not about thinking more, but thinking better. Taking just a moment to reflect—whether through Kung Fu, Tai Chi, reading, or time in nature—can unlock insights that shape your path.

Why It Matters: When you pause and truly listen to yourself, you gain clarity about your goals, your challenges, and your aspirations. The strongest traditions, the ones that have stood the test of time, are the ones that encourage deeper thinking. Success isn’t just about working harder—it’s also about thinking just a bit deeper.

What’s Next: In today’s world, focus is the new IQ. Those who cultivate the ability to concentrate without distraction will thrive. Give yourself space to think—slow down during forms, focus on your breath, or take a mindful moment after training.

As Bruce Lee said, “To become different from what we are, we must have some awareness of what we are.” The more you cultivate thoughtful awareness, the more you’ll see old ideas in new ways—and that’s where true growth happens.

 

P.S. Whenever you’re ready, here are ways we can help you get started.

1. Schedule a time to observe a class.
Interested in Kung Fu or Tai Chi?  First step is to watch a class and see if we would be a good fit! Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for an appointment.

2. Become part of my exclusive Coaching Group with CYH Remote Coaching.  Get personalized coaching delivered right to your phone and catered to your specific goals. Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for info.

Step Back, Reflect, and Realign

Kung Fu and Tai Chi teach us the value of reflection and intentional action. 

This month, I challenge you to carve out a few hours to step back, reflect, and realign your focus.

Here’s how:

  • Find an inspiring space (a park, a quiet coffee shop).
  • Bring a journal and pen—no devices!
  • Spend time thinking and writing about the bigger picture of your life.

Start with these questions:

  1. Are my daily actions leading me toward my goals—or off course?
  2. What do my actions say about my true priorities?
  3. If my life were a movie, what would the audience be shouting for me to do?
  4. Am I focusing on meaningful goals or getting lost in busy work?
  5. What beliefs should I challenge to grow stronger?

Give this some time, and see how it transforms your mindset. 

Small shifts now can lead to profound changes later—just like a single degree in a kung fu or tai chi stance can make all the difference!

Let me know what insights you uncover—I’d love to hear from you!

Sifu Oscar

 

P.S. Whenever you’re ready, here are ways we can help you get started.

1. Schedule a time to observe a class.
Interested in Kung Fu or Tai Chi?  First step is to watch a class and see if we would be a good fit! Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for an appointment.

2. Become part of my exclusive Coaching Group with CYH Remote Coaching.  Get personalized coaching delivered right to your phone and catered to your specific goals. Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for info.