The Principles of Jiu-Jitsu

Brazilian jiu-jitsu is one of the most potent, real-life fighting systems on the planet. Millions of viewers tune in to mixed martial arts matches or gather at local watering holes to cheer on their favorite fighters. None of this would be possible without jiu-jitsu.

The finer aspects of jiu-jitsu can easily be drowned out by the hype. This martial art sharpens the mind. It is more than a great workout. What are the principles of jiu-jitsu?

Technique over strength.

An effective jiu-jitsu instructor will have students focus more on their technique instead of using raw strength. That is why your 12-year-old daughter will be defeating opponents twice her size before you know it. How does this apply to life? Being polite, gentle and proficient will always win over brute force. Screaming and bullying are not just offensive. They are simply ineffective.

Efficiency over effort.

Efficiency is a principle many workplaces are lacking. The government and society at large could benefit from more efficiency. There is plenty of effort, however. What if more people sought to achieve their goals by spending the least energy possible? That sounds reasonable, right? Jiu-jitsu training emphasizes maximum efficiency with minimum effort. If an opponent is employing more strength, that calls for a relaxed, patient approach. A jiu-jitsu practitioner waits for him or her to make a move, then seizes the opportunity.

Go for the submission.

There is little room for procrastination in life. When faced with a problem, the best approach is to solve it right way. Failure to take care of obligations or problems will only cause them to get bigger. If someone asks you to do something, just do it. Go for the submission.

Use strategy.

Strategy and timing are everything in jiu-jitsu. The same goes for life’s complicated problems. Planning is everything. There are hundreds of techniques in jiu-jitsu. New ones are being discovered every day. The key to continuous self-improvement is to work on it, one step at a time. That is the strategy for success in any endeavor.

Seize opportunities.

Dare to be different. When rolling with an opponent, an advanced jiu-jitsu practitioner can abandon a plan, keep his or her eyes and ears open, and seize opportunities. It will become a lifestyle, a catalyst for change. Dare to win!