It's your journey, make it so.

As I sipped my tea the other day, a wandering thought caught my attention, and it was as if the universe was nudging me to reflect on my passions. If I weren't coaching jiu-jitsu, I would likely find myself leading groups as an outbound tour guide or something similar. Both roles share a common thread – a love for overseas travel, immersing myself in diverse cultures and cuisines, and experiencing the vast tapestry of the world. This resonates deeply with the concept of the Hero's Journey, where adventure and growth are the guiding principles.

I can envision myself in the role of a guide or mentor, ushering excited travelers, whether they're first-timers or seasoned explorers, to their destinations and back home, filled with unforgettable memories. Similarly, my years of training abroad in unfamiliar gyms, meeting new people, have brought a deeper sense of satisfaction and enjoyment. Perhaps it's because being in a student mindset again is always refreshing and humbling. Being a beginner in an unfamiliar setting allows you to approach challenges with a fresh perspective, unencumbered by preconceptions.

I often share with my group that my most enjoyable time in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) was when I was still a white belt, learning the game without pressure. There was a purity to the experience, a sense of discovery that is hard to replicate once you've advanced. It's a reminder that growth often begins with humility and a willingness to learn.

My current perspective on martial arts training is centered around ownership. You must own your journey and not rely on others to carry you through. Some say you should know your techniques as well as the number of hairs on the back of your hand. However, for me, it's not about memorization; it's about feeling confident in your abilities. This confidence arises from knowing what you're capable of and being in control of it. You decide when and how to use your skills by reading situations effectively. Your ability to interpret body language and non-verbal cues is what sets you apart. This requires training, dedication, and successful practice outcomes. Your successes are built on lessons learned from failures, so don't fear failure; instead, embrace it as a stepping stone to improvement. Failures can come from within or be forced by your training partners, who present challenges that push you to grow. These experiences provide valuable data for future decisions. Using this information, explore the different options available to you. This problem-solving nature, combined with the physicality of movement, will be the powerful catalyst needed to supercharge your confidence.

The evolution of my BJJ journey has been fascinating. I've come to realize that winning isn't everything. I now roll strategically for position, and I'm happier not being submitted as much as I enjoy getting caught in a smart combination or setup. That in itself is a victory. Rolling at my own pace is a win. Not getting exhausted or burning out is a win. After a recent rolling session with a defensive specialist, I gained a deeper appreciation for the defensive game and how much more I have to learn and improve. This feeling is energizing and intriguing, a reminder that growth is a lifelong journey.

In developing your game, it should be more than just a random collection of techniques. My recent conversations with experienced coaches have shown me that they are true professionals and specialists. Everything they do carries weight and thought, stemming from knowledge and experience. It's inspiring, and I hope to reach that level one day. What will your game and journey be like? Will you find joy in the journey, embracing each challenge as an opportunity to grow? Will you approach your training with the mindset of a lifelong learner, always seeking to improve and expand your horizons?

As you embark on your own journey, whether it's in martial arts, travel, or any other pursuit, remember that the path itself is the destination. It's the experiences, the people you meet, and the lessons you learn along the way that truly enrich your life. So, embrace the unknown with an open heart and mind. Let the thrill of adventure guide you, and let your passions ignite a fire within you that burns brightly for years to come.

In the end, it's not about reaching a specific goal; it's about the journey itself. It's about the growth, the connections you make, and the memories you create. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a beginner in a new field, remember that every step forward is a victory. Every challenge overcome is a testament to your strength and resilience. So, keep moving forward, always seeking to learn, grow, and explore. For in the act of doing so, you'll find a sense of fulfillment and purpose that will inspire you to reach new heights.

As you reflect on your personal journey in BJJ and overseas travel, you might notice striking similarities. Both are paths filled with adventure, growth, and self-discovery. Just as traveling to a new destination involves navigating unfamiliar landscapes and embracing cultural differences, your BJJ journey involves navigating new techniques and strategies. Both require resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to learn. The journey in BJJ, like traveling, is not just about reaching a destination – whether it's a new belt rank or a new city – but about the experiences you accumulate along the way. The people you meet, the challenges you overcome, and the lessons you learn all contribute to a richer understanding of yourself and the world around you. Collecting a new passport stamp and earning a new belt are both badges of honor, symbols of the journey you own. Each stamp and each belt represent milestones in your journey, reminders of the hard work, dedication, and perseverance that have shaped you into who you are today. As you continue on your path, whether it's on the mat or in a foreign land, remember that every step forward is a victory, every challenge is an opportunity for growth, and every experience is a testament to your strength and resilience. In embracing this journey, you'll find that the journey itself becomes the greatest reward, a journey that is both transformative and unforgettable.