Written by Gile Huni., a 3rd degree BJJ black belt and head instructor at Kimura BJJ Serbia
Maintaining humility in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which emphasizes technique and strategy over brute strength, is crucial for both personal growth and fostering a positive training environment. This typically applies to those who may feel they are becoming too proficient in Jiu Jitsu, often finding themselves tapping out others frequently. There are two considerations: either it’s time to find a new school, particularly if you’re a white or blue belt consistently outperforming others, or acknowledge your skill but avoid becoming arrogant.
Arrogance tends to emerge around the blue and purple belt level when practitioners experience significant success. This leads to an inflated ego, often manifested in boastful behavior in the gym. However, it’s important to stay humble, as there is always someone better. Even if you’re the top performer in your local gym, competing in tournaments or visiting other gyms can quickly introduce you to more skilled opponents.
Here are some ways to maintain humility in Jiu-Jitsu:
Recognize Your Own Limitations
Understand that no matter how skilled you are, there’s always more to learn. Jiu-Jitsu is a complex art with endless techniques and variations.
Respect All Practitioners
Show respect to everyone in the gym, regardless of their belt level. Learning can come from both higher and lower belts.
Be Open to Learning
Always be a student of the game. Be open to receiving advice and learning from others, including your instructors and training partners.
Celebrate Others’ Successes
Be happy for your training partners when they achieve success, whether it’s mastering a new technique or winning a competition.
Avoid Boasting
Refrain from bragging about your victories or belt promotions. Humility is about understanding your achievements without feeling the need to boast.
Accept Defeat Gracefully
Understand that losing is a part of learning. Use it as an opportunity to grow rather than a reason to be discouraged.
Help Others
Share your knowledge and experience with others in the gym. Helping others improve can also deepen your understanding of Jiu-Jitsu.
Reflect on Your Journey
Remember where you started and the challenges you faced. This can help keep your current successes in perspective.
Stay Grounded
Keep in mind that there’s always someone more skilled. This thought can help you stay humble and focused on continuous improvement.
Train Regularly
Regular training exposes you to various skill levels and techniques, which can help in maintaining a realistic assessment of your abilities.
By embracing these principles, you can cultivate humility in Jiu-Jitsu, which will not only make you a better practitioner but also a respected member of your martial arts community.
