The Ontario Broker - Volume 23, Issue 3 - 48

COLUMNS
The Quest for Excellence
Sarah Montalba, Administration Coordinator, IBAO
sparring level. To say I've improved is an understatement. I went
from a mindset of Muay Thai as an extracurricular activity to
training for a potential amateur fight.
Muay Thai is a never-ending learning process. I'm constantly
I
48
n the quest for success and fulfilment in both our personal
and professional lives, we can occasionally find inspiration
from unpredicted sources-for me, that's my journey into
Muay Thai. This combat sport is often referred to as The Art of
Eight Limbs because it makes use of eight points of contact-
punches, elbows, knees and kicks. The principles of this ancient art
have translated into all facets of my life, offering valuable insights
that fuel the motivation I bring with me to my role at IBAO.
One of the main motivators behind this martial art is the path
of self-improvement. Every time I'm in the gym training, it's an
opportunity to perfect my technique, push past my limits and
develop as a fighter and an individual.
I joined the gym mostly to disprove my brother's lack of faith
in my physical capability, but now I've passed two level tests and
have acquired my blue and red shorts-indicating that I've reached
refining techniques, seeking feedback and remaining open to new
approaches. On the surface it may look like a simplified martial
art, but when you're in the gym training and expanding on the
basics like throwing a swing kick, you'll learn that you have to pivot
and elevate your base foot to help rotate your hip. Having a good
understanding of the basics only takes you so far. It's the mindset
of wanting to learn the intricacies and nuances that will aid your
progression. In the workplace, fostering a culture of continuous
learning motivates people to acquire new skills and stay adaptable
to changing circumstances.
Training demands perseverance. I encounter setbacks, face
tough opponents and endure physical strain. I'm met with coaches
who push me to do things I believe I can't do. There are times at
the end of class where I literally drop from physical exhaustion.
Despite this, I remind myself that I'm better today than I was
yesterday and hold onto the notion of progress. At the office, the
ability to persist, adapt and maintain a positive attitude during
difficult times, like through structural changes, helps overcome
obstacles.
Engaging in a rigorous sport like Muay Thai relies on the support
of others. Much of my progress is due to my brother and coaches
taking the time to provide feedback. Similarly, the workplace
benefits from building a supportive and collaborative atmosphere,
one that encourages teamwork, empathy and mutual assistance,
and creates a sense of belonging.
Acknowledging progress and celebrating victories, big or
small, has kept my motivation high in my journey. Gaining my
blue and now red shorts reflects the work I've put in and the
discipline I've practiced. It's through small victories that a path for
continuous self-improvement is paved. In the office, recognizing
and appreciating staff accomplishments creates a positive
environment. Feeling appreciated for hard work encourages
engagement and increases motivation.
Above all, my experience in Muay Thai has been driven by
passion for the sport and a sense of purpose. At work, aligning
personal passion and values with professional goals enhances
motivation. When staff are passionate about their work and feel
a sense of purpose in what they do, they become more engaged,
productive and fulfilled.
The Ontario Broker
The Ontario Broker - Volume 23, Issue 3

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of The Ontario Broker - Volume 23, Issue 3
