The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset 

Let’s talk about something that somehow represents the physical strain of training. As we may have known, the mind plays a huge role in the development of our skills as fighters. There has to be harmony to both mind and body for us to succeed in BJJ.

Mindsets are beliefs—beliefs about yourself and your most basic qualities. Think about your intelligence, your talents, your personality. Are these qualities simply fixed traits, carved in stone and that’s that? Or are they things you can cultivate throughout your life?

People with a fixed mindset believe that their traits are just given. They have a certain amount of brains and talent and nothing can change that. If they have a lot, they’re all set, but if they don’t… So people in this mindset worry about their traits and how adequate they are. They have something to prove to themselves and others (from http://mindsetonline.com/whatisit/themindsets/index.html)

The above definition speaks a lot. However, this can be related to BJJ, our mindsets can eventually, not just change our lives, but also our game.

Mindset #1: The winner’s mindset
Regardless of your age, race, occupation, and educational attainment you are a winner. Your worst opponent is yourself. Having a self-defeating mindset will carry on in the mat.

Mindset #2: Set your mind to achieve greatness
Most people do not attempt, or try to achieve anything significant. It’s a sad fact that most live life not knowing that they are capable of achieving. Set your mind to achieve something significant everyday. Now, practice keeping the mindset, then go to bigger things. Achieving results inside and outside the mat is possible. You can achieve that belt if you want to. All you need to do is to want it.

Mindset #3: You are a hard-worker
One of the toughest mindsets to make; to be a hard-worker. Working hard on the mats, thinking that you are working hard is one thing. But working really hard is another. Working on the mats hard enough to get results takes the mindset of a hard-worker.

Mindset #4: The competitor’s mindset
The competitor’s mindset is not all about winning. It’s about learning. When stepping on the mat, expect to learn. Winning and glory will eventually come after you’ve learned more than you’ll ever need. BJJ is no different. Never rush to winning if you have yet to learn something.

Mindset #5: Accept great challenges
The most prolific days of your life won’t likely be easy.  It’s not in the serenity of your comfort zone or the inactivity of a lazy day that drives greatness.  Great demands drive the growth of great virtues.  Contending with great challenges forms the foundation of greatness. (from Marcandangel.com)

Keep working hard to get your mind and body right and you will be better equipped to accomplish all of your goals in BJJ and in life.