WC: How long you been training?
Me: Almost two years. Trying to get to the level where I can
win some majors.
WC: Absolutely you can. Just have to train intelligently.
Lots of positional training. Most guys just go to the gym and only practice
what instructor shows you. You really have to to take it upon your self to grow
your game.
Those three words sat with me something serious, as I had this conversation a little over a week ago. Often times, we know exactly what to do in order to excel at something, but yet we are absolute idiots when it comes to applying it to that something we are currently doing. EUREKA!
We read biographies and interviews, watch documentaries, and even hang out with extraordinary/successful people on a daily basis. Yet we still walk around clueless, albeit having the answers at our fingertips, about how to improve ourselves in life, relationships, business, and in my case, jiu-jitsu. I hear people complain on a daily basis about how they can't do this, and how this opportunity isn't available for them...bull. The reason I am saying this is because just about a month ago...I was that guy!!!! Until I had this conversation, I was always moping about blaming everyone for my suckage. Hell I was even blaming mother nature on the reason why I couldn't get in great shape (I live in the PNW). Damn, now that's taking complaining to a whole new level.
Often times we talk about our school, instructor, training partners, and family being the reason why we aren't on the podium. Yet in reality, we are the reason. You can't blame your instructor if you're not drilling or studying what he teaches you. You can't blame your "garbage" training partners if Joe Armbar can armbar you just by looking at you still. And you can't blame your three yr old for the reason why you still eat a box of cookies and watch TV after training.
Just like World Champ said, "take it upon yourself to grow your game!"
This means doing everything in your power to improve yourself, despite the setbacks. Sure you may have issues, sure everything may not go your way, but there is always something you can do to improve a certain aspect of your game. If one thing comes up short, make sure you pick up the slack in another area. If you can't drill or attend class, run sprints in your neighborhood park to improve your cardio. There is nothing that a little effort cannot fix. Remember these things.
1. Drilling will increase your game exponentially.
2. Your instructor knows more than you think he does. So ask questions.
3. Classes keep the doors of your school open. They are not a blueprint for success. At best, they will allow you to embarrass your friends.
4. You can always be doing something to improve your game. Watch video, instructionals, working out, eating healthy, drilling, etc.
5. Compete in even the smallest tournaments. Sure it isn't the Worlds, but its better than nothing.
6. Don't turn down opportunities to train.
7. If you really cared, you would make a way. Jus sayin.
"Everyday you are either moving closer or further away from your goal. Make it count."-Lloyd Irvin
