In BJJ, the mat is not just a place for physical training.
Oftentimes, it's also a battleground for mental resilience.

You see, early in my journey, I grappled with something that many of us face but rarely discuss: imposter syndrome.
Despite my passion and dedication, as well as results – doubts often crept in, making me question my place in the BJJ world.

I remember feeling overwhelmed at one particular tournament (decades ago... man time flies), thinking: “How am I going to beat this Brazilian kid? I’m just a kid from Oklahoma. I don’t have a black belt teaching me every day, I am not surrounded by high-level BJJ every single day... How am I supposed to win?"

However, it was around that time that my coach & mentor Saulo Ribeiro taught me a crucial mental shift.
That, instead of viewing my background as a disadvantage, I should begin looking at it as a source of strength.

To confirm it to myself that yes, I was from Oklahoma, and yes, I had to work harder to access resources and opportunities in the BJJ world.
But also to acknowledge that this very challenge should fuel my determination.

I transformed my narrative from one of limitation to one of resilience: “I’m from Oklahoma, and I’m still going to beat you. I work that much harder. I sacrifice more, I have to push myself beyond what you have to... That is why I will succeed.”

And honestly, this mindset shift was liberating. As well as Saulo's precious advice.
It allowed me to embrace my journey and use it as a driving force rather than a source of doubt.

The harder the path, the more rewarding the triumph.

For those grappling with imposter syndrome in BJJ, here are a few pieces of advice from my experience:

1. Reframe your narrative: instead of focusing on what you lack, focus on what you bring to the table. Your unique experiences and challenges can be your greatest assets.

2. Embrace the journey: every practitioner’s path is different. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and understand that growth takes time and perseverance.

3. Seek mentorship: surround yourself with supportive mentors and peers who believe in your potential. Their guidance can provide invaluable insights and boost your confidence.

4. Focus on effort over outcome: concentrate on the process and the effort you put into training rather than solely on results

5. Acknowledge your achievements: take time to recognize and celebrate your milestones. Reflecting on how far you’ve come can reinforce your self-belief and allow you to work even harder – for even bigger success(es).

Imposter syndrome is a common hurdle, but it doesn’t have to define your BJJ (nor life) journey.

Because, by shifting your mindset and leveraging your unique strengths, you can turn self-doubt into a powerful motivator.

Repeat after me: the harder the path, the sweeter the victory.