 OLD FRIENDS - While visiting Brazil, Carlos Valente had some good times with some old friends, including Rickson Gracie (center) and Royler Gracie (second from right).
Have Fun!
When you go to your school to train, you must come with the right attitude. The idea isn't to tap everyone out. For instance, if someone taps you out, you need to be a good sport and thank your training partner. If you don't take it personally and see it as a learning opportunity, then you will have more fun.
This is the same way you want to live every day, no matter who you are in the real world. Don't let setbacks get you down; instead, look at them with a good attitude. You'll have more fun in life.
Learn About Yourself
When you are in a challenging situation, you get an opportunity to learn a lot about yourself. I always tell my students to challenge themselves. When you are a white belt, you are challenging yourself by default when you step on the mat. As you get to the higher ranks, you can challenge yourself by letting your training partners put you in difficult situations.
The insights and confidence you gain from knowing how you handle these challenges will serve you well in the real world when you encounter difficult situations. Use those insights and confidence you've developed in jiu-jitsu to overcome those setbacks and move forward.
Lifelong Friends
 The benefits of jiu-jitsu extend far beyond the mat, says Carlos Valente, overlooking a beautiful Brazilian beach.
I reconnected with many friends, some of whom I hadn't seen in 18 years, but the bond was still as strong. We all agreed that if it weren't for the experiences from jiu-jitsu that we would not have felt this way. The respect you develop for your training partners on the mat will translate into respect for each other off the mat. As you gain more memories and respect for each other, it opens the way for you to get to know each other better.
More Than Submissions
Now you can see how training in jiu-jitsu is much more than learning submissions and self-defense skills for the street. Not only is it a way to have fun and unwind from a long day, it provides you with the confidence to overcome obstacles off the mat and develop lasting friendships that will never fade away. So, get on the mat and reap the rewards. Get In Touch
Name: The Valente Academy
Headquarters: 9888-G Carmel Mountain Rd., San Diego, CA 92129
Phone: (858) 538-8688
Web site: www.valenteacademy.com
Show comments (0) - Add comments to this article: |
