Beginner's mindset

Three and a half years into my Jiu Jitsu journey, and I am still a beginner. 

Every single class I am humbled by how little I know, and how the opportunity for growth is infinite. The best part is that I know that forty years from now (at 86) I will still be learning. 

I’m also convinced that despite all the bumps and bruises, the ‘forced contortionism’ combined with the sheer difficulty of the sport, has resulted in the best health and mobility of my life.

As a middle-aged man getting embarrassed weekly by the limitations of my current skills, I am getting comfortable at being a beginner again, and this has been great exercise for my ego. I have renewed appreciation for the ‘beginners mindset’, being OK with starting from zero, and this is the foundation for neuro-plasticity and new learning.

I’ve found a master I trust, a journey I’ve committed to for life, and know that I will still feel like an excited child decades from now as I continue to earn ‘stripes’ on my belts. Get excited about trying new things, it will keep you young.

• Now that’s a peak ethos.