Gossip can really damage the positive environment we try to cultivate in our BJJ gym. A little comment here and there can blow up into a big thing. This is supposed to be a place of mutual learning and respect.

We all started with the goal of getting better someday. Whether you compete or not, you’re there to learn and progress up the ranks over time.

Even the most humble guys go all out in class – we have to try what we learn for real during rolls!

Our skills don’t always grow at a steady pace. Sometimes we level up fast, other times we feel stuck. And we all have our own learning curve – some pick it up quick, others take longer.
That’s why the gym is a constant work in progress. We’re all at different stages.

It’s also important to remember that our training partners aren’t opponents – they’re giving us the honor of learning together. Just because someone talks through a position doesn’t mean they won’t go hard. You’re seeing their full game.

Live rolls are without a doubt crucial for improving.

When rolling with a higher belt, see it as a chance to learn from their experience. Take advantage and test your own skills too.
If you’re giving a senior guy a tough round, congrats – it means your game is growing. Always remember though that the goal is to be better than yesterday, not better than anyone else.
So if you succeed against a higher belt, feel proud but no need to brag to everyone. That would be disrespectful to your training partner.

A true practitioner trains because they love Jiu Jitsu. They don’t need to prove themselves over others. As long as they respect their teammates and masters the techniques, that’s what really matters.