In a heartfelt reflection on his journey through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Tom DeBlass shared a message of perseverance, gratitude, and long-term perspective for all grapplers – especially those just starting out.
Here is what he had to say in a recent social media post:
Appreciate every single day you step on the mats.
Whether you’re getting tapped or having a great roll, you’re doing something most people are too lazy, too scared, or too distracted to even attempt.
That alone is something to be proud of.
DeBlass emphasized that growth in Jiu-Jitsu often comes during moments of struggle:
Some of your greatest lessons will come on your toughest days. Until I earned my purple belt, it felt like all I did was tap. Now, 95% of the men who used to tap me don’t even train anymore.
For DeBlass, this is proof that consistency beats everything over time:
Progress takes time – give yourself grace, and give yourself a lifetime.
The only person you should compare yourself to is the one you were yesterday.
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