How does Mr Redmond’s advice about “Finkin’ and footwork”(p.212) help Charlie?

Mr Redmond tell Charlie he used to do boxing, so Charlie starts, but he isn't ready for the bag. He has to learn the two fs; finkin and footwork. The boxing metaphor helps Charlie in life. He is able to improvise and navigate to put enough food to put on the table and to keep the house warm,