At Jung SuWon Martial Art Academy, our Founder, Great Grandmaster Tae Yun Kim, teaches an important lesson that goes beyond kicks, punches, and forms: every day is a fresh start. One of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves as martial artists—and as human beings—is the practice of forgiveness in our daily training.

When we step onto the mat, it’s easy to carry yesterday with us. Maybe we made mistakes in sparring. Maybe we forgot a form, or our energy wasn’t strong. Sometimes, we are our own toughest critic. But holding on to yesterday’s mistakes is like carrying a heavy backpack—it slows us down.

Great Grandmaster Tae Yun Kim reminds us that martial arts is not about being perfect every day; it’s about showing up, doing our best, and learning with an open heart. Yesterday is gone. We can learn from it, but we shouldn’t dwell on our past. To forgive ourselves for yesterday means to truly let go and move forward with strength and confidence.

Forgiveness Builds Growth

Think about it this way: if a seed never forgave itself for being small, it would never grow into a tree. In martial arts, forgiveness is the soil that allows growth to happen. Every missed step, every stumble, every slow reaction—these are not failures. They are opportunities to improve.

By forgiving ourselves, we give permission to grow. We begin to see mistakes not as setbacks, but as stepping stones.

A Fresh Start Each Time You Bow

At the start of every class, when we bow, we are not only showing respect to our teacher, our school, and our fellow students—we are also symbolically resetting ourselves. It is a moment to release yesterday and step into the present.

That bow says: Today, I will give my best. Today, I forgive yesterday’s struggles. Today, I start again.

Training Forgiveness Like a Muscle

Just as we train our bodies to get stronger, we can train our minds to practice forgiveness. The more often we forgive ourselves, the easier it becomes. Over time, we stop carrying self-doubt and start carrying confidence.

Here are a few ways you can practice forgiveness in your daily martial arts routine:

• Take a deep breath before class. Imagine letting go of yesterday’s mistakes as you exhale.

• Focus on what you can do today. Even small improvements matter.

• Celebrate effort, not just results. Effort is the bridge to mastery.

• Remind yourself: “I am not yesterday. I am today.”

Forgiveness Beyond the Mat

What makes this lesson powerful is that it doesn’t stop when we leave the dojo. Practicing daily forgiveness in martial arts naturally spills into everyday life. At school, at work, at home—we can choose to let go of yesterday’s stress and face today with fresh energy.

At Jung SuWon Martial Art Academy, Great Grandmaster Tae Yun Kim teaches us that forgiveness is not just about others—it begins with ourselves. Every day, we have the chance to start new. Every class, every bow, every breath is an opportunity to let go and grow stronger.

Remember: yesterday is gone. We can learn from it, but we shouldn’t dwell on our past. Today is your new beginning. Step onto the mat, forgive, and move forward with courage.

Read more inspiring articles: Learn more about Great Grandmaster Tae Yun Kim