21 Days to Become Better in Jiu-Jitsu

Habits create us. Habits are tendencies that we have cultivated throughout the years. There are good and bad habits, but one thing that has never failed to manifest about habits is the way that they are exhibited. They are exhibited unconsciously and habits that are exhibited unconsciously are the ones that are very very difficult to change. These are mannerisms, thought processes that have been deep rooted in our system. Ridding those habits that we may see unproductive.

“Habits are what we expose ourselves to,” Dr. Jonathan Miller, child psychologist, and also a purple belt  of Gracie Barra Georgia. His analogy towards behavior is this: “I always tell my clients that they can only stand in front of a buffet for so long before they have a bite…. the idea is exposure.  Regardless if you are talking about an alcoholic or a dedicated athlete, whatever you expose yourself to the most, is what you do.  It could be on the couch watching TV or attending Jiu-Jitsu,” comments Dr. Miller.

“Learned behaviors are repetitive and become automatic and second in nature,” He adds.

Day 1: 

I would first want you to list down the things the things that you love about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. List down the things that has made you successful in it. Put it on a piece of paper. Make sure that you are writing it in a first person format. Now write down the things that you think are keeping you from becoming successful in Jiu-Jitsu. These may be things like laziness, procrastination, failure to listen to your instructor, lack of focus, lack of will to attend classes, etc.

Keep in mind that we are trying to change a behavior that you think is keeping you from succeeding in Jiu-Jitsu. Now, write down the things that you would like to change. It would be better if you’ll make a poster out of it. You have to be honest about it. It’s you and yourself.

Put it in a place where you can see it. Now beneath it, write why you want to change it, and how much you are willing to sacrifice in order to change that behavior.

The steps will be given for a total of 21 days. These steps are tailored towards changing undesired behavior and turning them into what Jiu-Jitsu champions are made of.

Stay tuned for Day 2 coming soon!