Embracing the Process

Happy New Year!

This is a new year full of possibilities to learn, adapt, and reach further in our potential. The beginning of the year is a great time to slow down, reflect on our growth and aspirations, and then plan out some personal goals both on and off the mats.  

As we move into this new year, let's avoid going on autopilot and doing things the way we have always done them. While we're at it, let's not give into the efficiency trap or illusion that if we just do enough or find the right life hack, things will fall into place. The emails will continue to flood our inbox, distractions will compete for our attention, and trials are promised to arise. 

There is freedom in accepting our limitations. Instead of trying to do it all, let's decide on the meaningful things in life that we will be productive at. Perhaps this looks like: 

• Becoming/remaining healthy and fit – mentally, physically and emotionally - so you can show up at your best for yourself and others.  
• Challenging yourself on the mat where, in the process, you build the confidence and ability to perform well under pressure to face challenges off the mat and practice the discipline and focus to stay the course to experience more of life.   
• Connected to a supportive and encouraging community that you can contribute to and be a part of something bigger than yourself   

I'll talk about just jiu jitsu here though, as you all know, #itsnotaboutjiujitsu. Embrace the BJJ journey. Your measure of success should not be how well you roll in a class. Your success and your worth are not tied to your performance. Focus on the process rather than trying to control the outcome. It's in the process of showing up, connecting with others and embracing the learning process that we grow and become our true and best selves.  

As we show up, let's consistently try to implement what is being taught in class. Skill and strength will come. Eventually it will lead to mastery. As we embrace the process, this time next year, we are going to look back and be amazed at how far we have come - where we are, what we've accomplished, but most importantly, who we have become and who our loved ones have become in response to our own growth.  

If you remember one thing from this post, it’s this: nothing beats the power of showing up. Embrace the process versus trying to control the outcome. Great things await you. 

Amazing things are in store for 2023. Here at the academy, we have a ton of fun events lined up for you. What excites us the most is to see the learning, growth and development you will experience; to witness you overcome challenges and step into new levels of success in life. 

Stripes and belt promotions await. Friendships will be forged and strengthened. A community and support network that leads to accomplishing and experiencing greater than any one of us could ever do on our own.  

This is what it’s about. And for that, I am grateful. Thank you for being a part of this team. Here's to another year of growth together on and off the mat! 

If you are brainstorming your personal training goals for this year, that's great! To help you think through this, check out our article Setting Personal Training Goals and Narrowing the Performance Gap.

- Professor Tony