Chapter 1: The Fear

Exploring the relationship with fear in jiu-jitsu is crucial for personal growth and goal setting. Fear often influences decisions, leading to a preference for comfort over the unknown. This can prevent practitioners from engaging in high-intensity scenarios like competitions or rolling with more skilled partners.

It's common to avoid situations that might lead to failure due to the fear of embarrassment or letting others down. However, jiu-jitsu is divided into competitors and non-competitors, each with distinct goals and processes. Non-competitors may practice jiu-jitsu for personal fulfillment without the need to compete, while competitors aim to improve their skills through strategic game-building and goal setting.

Desire to compete should not be hindered by fear. Common excuses such as age, fitness level, or training schedule constraints are not valid reasons to avoid competition. Competition is not solely about winning but about setting and achieving goals, experiencing growth, and testing oneself against unfamiliar opponents.

Fear of injury, the shock of the unknown, and the potential for failure are valid concerns but should not deter one from competing. Failure is an opportunity to learn and improve, identifying what works and what doesn't in one's jiu-jitsu practice. Embracing failure is essential for long-term success and expanding one's potential.

Failure is not a reflection of personal worth but a measure of potential and the willingness to try. Competing involves facing both failure and success, and it's important to be prepared for both outcomes.