Kime – Focus 

The translation for kime is focus, but in reality it also includes the concepts of synergy or teamwork as well. The physical expression of kime is the ability to analyze and implement several separate motions that come together at the same time and place, creating maximum efficiency. Successful execution of this concept allows a small individual to deliver a technique with sufficient power to defeat a much larger opponent. Examples of different actions that are included in delivering maximum focus of energy in a strike include hip rotation, forward movement of mass, snapping and rotation of the striking limb, and the tightening of all muscles at the spilt second of impact. Breaking down the action into individual components is a mental exercise and each element is developed based on priority of importance. Once each element is developed, the key becomes one of timing, allowing all of the elements to come to bear at the same split second.

This same process occurs when the successful person identifies what it is they truly want and creates plans of action making it happen. It is commonly understood that 20% of your actions create 80% of the positive results you are trying to accomplish. By identifying which actions will create the maximum results and focusing on them, while at the same time minimizing or even eliminating wasteful actions, you will be applying the concept of kime to living a successful life. This is why people with clearly defined goals and written action plans can achieve more in a few years, than most people do during their entire lives. Wilfred Peterson once wrote, “Success is focusing the full power of all you are on what you have the burning desire to achieve.”

In karate it is easy to see the power generated by the synchronization of physical movements of a strike. It is much harder to recognize the power of effectively identifying all the natural mental and personal traits you have that when properly used, will guarantee you successes beyond your wildest dreams.

The concept of kime is a key element in classical karate, and is also a key principle of success in achieving black belt excellence in anything you want to do, have or be.