Grading Tips

If there is anything that could interfere with your focus during the grading – sort it out before hand, so that your mind is clear and you concentrate fully on the class. A good method is to make a list of all the tasks that need to be done that week, and aim to finish those tasks before the weekend.
Use the Saturday as a rest day. Have plenty of high-energy food (e.g. pasta) and drink (water / juice). And have a good night night’s sleep.

Remember back when you have performed at the top level of your ability – when you were completely confident that you were doing your absolute best. When you did not care what other people thought because you knew that it was the best you could do, and you felt great about your performance. Now create an image of that moment in your mind. You are calm and confident, your breathing deep and slow. And you know that you can repeat this performance any time you want – just by bringing this image back into your mind.
Now imagine you are at the grading. You are standing in line. Your mind is clear and sharp, your body is full of energy. You feel confident and alert and you actually look forward to each exercise. Because you anticipate what’s coming next, you are able to stay relaxed and calm and you feel that you are able to complete each task almost effortlessly.
Now imagine that you are about to perform your grade kata. Bring back the image of complete confidence. You feel unstoppable, and you perform your kata at your top ability – strong, sharp, dynamic, focused, your body is centred and balanced, and your breathing deep and relaxed. Your kata is at the highest standard.
At the end of the grading, you feel content because you have done your absolute best – raising your personal standard to the next level, and are recognised with appropriate grade.