Why Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Made Me a Better Facilitator

Believe it or not, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has shaped how I show up in every room I lead and facilitate.

I started my martial arts journey around 18 years ago when I first walked into the Carlson Gracie BJJ academy in Chicago.

For me, it was a way to stay active as an athlete, and in a spiritual way, to connect with my Japanese heritage. Today, at 48, I am still at it - on my journey - applying its lessons to my career as a trainer and facilitator.

It has taught me a few key things:

1. Real learning comes from practicing and sparring under stress, vs. just listening to the instructor talk about theory.

   
   

2. Master the fundamentals before the bells and whistles.

   
   

3. Deliberate practice and consistency are the key to getting better.

   
   

4. There is a clear difference between someone who is trained vs. not trained.

   
   

5. If we don't practice the right techniques, our hardwired, often bad habits will surface when we are under stress.

   
   

6. Don't rest on your laurels - keep training, your skills will decline or become obsolete as the new generations evolve the art.

   
   

7. Confidence has a transference effect. The more confident you become in your ability to handle yourself in a physical altercation, that confidence can transfer into how you carry yourself in a difficult room where conflict and emotions can surface.

   
   

If you want to grow as a leader, teacher, or facilitator, train in something that makes you uncomfortable. Martial arts is one of the best teachers I’ve found.

Not for violence, but for confidence.- There is something out there for everyone.

If you're in Chicago - or visiting Chicago - I recommend visiting Israel Reyes's academy - Movimento BJJ. If in Sudbury - visit Steve Joncas's - Sudbury BJJ.