The Power of Patience: Trusting Your Jiu-Jitsu Journey
“Be patient. Everything is coming together” - Anonymous
We often talk about the skills needed on the mats—technique, strength, conditioning. But one of the most powerful lessons that truly defines a martial artist is patience.
It's easy to get caught up in the race for the next stripe or belt. We see others advance, and the pressure builds. This story about learning karate illustrates why the journey is far more important than the destination:
As a kid, I started karate alongside my older brother. We tested together, but when it came time to move from Green to Brown Belt—a rank that requires you to create your own form and techniques—my journey stalled. My brother created his and advanced; I didn't, and I didn't test.
It took me four years to complete that step.
How did that teach me patience? Because for those four years, I didn't care about the rank. I simply loved showing up to class. I loved the art. I was learning a crucial lesson: sometimes you aren't ready to advance because you haven't yet cultivated the desire for the next step.
I was content simply being there, enjoying the training, and learning at my own pace. And I'm deeply grateful that my parents and instructor were patient enough to let me enjoy the art until that genuine desire to advance finally took root.
The Real Lesson for Jiu-Jitsu
Today, I see students in Jiu-Jitsu who quit because they aren't advancing, or because they feel they "don't like it anymore."
If you find yourself in that mental space, here’s what you need to remember:
Embrace the Journey: Your growth is not measured by the color of your belt alone. It’s measured by showing up, by the small victories, and by the consistent effort. There is profound strength in attending class simply for the sake of the art.
Focus on the Moments: When you feel discouraged, stop focusing on the parts of Jiu-Jitsu you struggle with. Instead, focus on those small, breakthrough moments—the successful sweep, the escaped submission, the clean technique—that make you believe, "I can do this."
Find Your Path: There is no single "right" path to black belt. Your pace is your own. Your journey is unique.
Do not let impatience steal your passion. Be patient with your training, be patient with your body, and be patient with your progress. Consistency is what changes your life, not speed. Keep showing up, keep learning, and trust that your dedication will lead you exactly where you need to be.
What’s one small goal you can focus on this week, rather than the belt around your waist?