In January I decided to start taking jiu-jitsu as a hobby. I quickly discovered that it was not really something you do as a hobby. Unless you enjoy someone trying to choke you in your leisure time. After a few weeks of regular classes I decided that I was going to sign up for a tournament. One of my bucket list items was to win a jiu-jitsu tournament.
Long story short, I trained, I hurt, I won. I mainly wanted to share with you a few things I learned through the process that might help you as well.
Everybody needs a coach
I’m a little biased since I coach people very day, but you cannot understate the importance of having a coach. And having the right coach is crucial. You want somebody who fits your personality (yeller vs low key), someone who knows their stuff, and a person who has your best interest in mind.
The guy who led most of the classes I went to is a guy in his early 20s named Evan. And he has all the characteristics I mentioned above. Extremely knowledgeable, patient (even when I make the same stupid mistake over and over), and is really invested in getting people better. Plus he’s a handsome devil, so that always helps.
Community is key
An added bonus to training at Maverick Training Center where I train is the people I have met there. There are some crazy, hilarious, weird, friendly, and outrageous people there. They come from all walks of life, but the one thing they have in common is that every one of them gave me tips and encouragement to get better. It’s weird to have someone say things like, “No, no if you want to really hurt me put my elbow up higher.” There is tremendous power in being surrounded by people who lift you up.
Misery loves company
There were so many moments that I would have given up if I were by myself. But having that coach to push you and your fellow students not giving up gives you the strength to go further than you thought you could go.
I quit
There were days when I first started training that I decided to quit. I had every excuse I could think of ready (too old, too sore, too busy, etc…) I considered faking a broken leg (I know people with casts), saying I had some horribly contagious disease, or perhaps faking my own death to get out of going to class. It is a natural, human instinct to avoid pain. Maybe not the way I was going to do it, but still. It is ok if you want to give up, just don’t! Dig down, push through, and make yourself proud.
Good Days, Bad Days
There were days I felt like I was really getting the hang of things, felt physically strong, and did really well in training. Other days were absolutely awful. In a workout if I don’t feel good I slow down, take a break, or get lighter weights. In jiu-jitsu you take a break and somebody will do bad things to you. These days are rough, but you know what? That makes the good days that much sweeter.
What are you willing to give up?
Getting ahead means leaving some things behind. Blood, sweat, time away from family, broken bones (minor ones), sore muscles, and time away from my business were all things I was willing to give up/endure for a few months to achieve my goal. I don’t think you need anything that extreme, but something has to change for you to change. Maybe you need to give up wine, eating out every day at lunch, or Netflix binges.
