Discipline

While practicing it is easy to become distracted. Particularly if you’re tired and going through apparently endless repetitions of a technique you don’t like. It is precisely thoughts like these - My legs are killing me, when will this end, I really don’t like this technique - that give you the opportunity to practice the most essential of the spiritual aspects of Aikido.
 

Cut all these thoughts away. The moment you notice them, drop them. Refocus instantly on what you are doing. When you do Aikido, do Aikido. 100%. It is simple. There is nothing to think about.
 

Over time you will develop an ability to focus totally, without doubt or hesitation. Relentless. This is discipline. This is sincerity. For Budo it is essential.

PM