How to Change Technology Habits – Lessons from the Karate Kid

Remember the movie, The Karate Kid?  In one scene, Mr. Miyagi, a karate expert, is preparing to train Daniel, a wiry young man who is getting picked on at school.  Mr. Miyagi asks Daniel, “Are you ready to begin training?” His response is, “I guess.”

Mr. Miyagi’s response is very poignant.  Mr. Myagi says, “Daniel-san, must talk. Walk on road, walk right side, safe.  Walk left side, safe.  Walk middle, sooner or later, you get squished just like grape.  Here, karate same thing.  Either you karate do yes, or karate do, no. You karate do – “guess so,” squish, just like grape.”

Mr. Miyagi’s continues to explain – there is “karate yes and karate no – but there is no karate maybe.”

You can see the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3lQSxNdr3c

Summer Camp for Technology Change Habits

Changing technology habits or a video game addiction requires this same level of commitment.  There is no “maybe” when it comes to dedicating yourself to real change, or to making substantial life improvements.  You either make the commitment, or you don’t.  There is no middle of the road.  Taking the middle of the road is a recipe for failure.

A “middle of the road” strategy is less effective than full commitment.  Research has shown for example that those who committed to more intensive workout routines had greater longevity in their commitment.

Really the only way to ensure habit change is to devote yourself 100% to the cause.  If you don’t, you are setting yourself up for disappointment.  Full dedication to improving your lifestyle habits is one of the best decisions you can make.

So now I ask you, are you ready to being your training?  I hope you responded with a resounding, “YES!”