For me, it starts with isolating the technique so I understand the mechanics, timing, grips, pressure, and purpose behind it. But I don’t think a technique is really “mine” until I understand the what ifs.

The what ifs are what turn a move into a system.

So I like to build in layers: first the mechanics, then the reactions, then the connections. After that, drilling becomes the bridge between understanding and actually being able to use it live.

What has worked best for my game is not collecting random techniques, but building small systems around positions I trust. That way I’m not guessing during training, I’m recognizing reactions and following a path.

Ooooo I can’t wait for this week. Uchi Mata one of my favorite takedowns 💥 on the menu for Interm class 

Jiu Jitsu has taught me so many lessons. Honestly, without it, my life would look completely different. I’m not even sure what that version would be.

One of the biggest things it’s given me is the ability to handle pressure in my personal life. Life throws all kinds of situations at us, and we often find ourselves in circumstances we can’t control. It’s easy to overreact. It’s easy to get emotional. What’s hard is slowing down, evaluating what’s actually happening, and making the best possible decision in that moment.

That’s what Jiu Jitsu teaches us every day, how to stay calm, think clearly, and find solutions under pressure. And really, that’s not just Jiu Jitsu… that’s life.

“Technique is learned once, but it’s drilled forever.”

Drill. Drill. Drill.

Drilling is one of the most underestimated tools for improvement and often one of the most misunderstood. It’s not just a phase you rush through on your way to sparring. It’s where your Jiu-Jitsu is actually built.

Yes, drilling helps you understand the mechanics. But it goes much deeper than that. It’s where you develop timing, precision, speed, and ultimately flow. It’s where movements stop being something you think about and start becoming something you do.

Sparring tests your Jiu-Jitsu. Drilling creates it.

The more intentional your reps, the more natural your execution becomes when it matters most.

I don’t know if I can narrow it down to just one piece of advice, there have been so many over the years. But one that’s been on my mind lately is this:

You don’t have to solve everything at once. You just need to solve the one problem that moves you forward.

It’s easy to get stuck trying to fix everything around you, whether that’s life, business, or even a tough position on the mat. But progress usually comes from small, focused steps. Instead of trying to escape the entire situation at once, find the next piece you can improve, solve that, and build from there.

Lately, I’ve been embracing that mindset more, keep moving forward, even if it’s one small step at a time.

Great week ahead with Fundamental Top Mount and Interm Turtle Escapes. Lots of drilling and potential focus in my classes. See you in the mat.