As CEO of SEDA College and a Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, I realize that many lessons learned on the mat are directly reflected in the business world.
That’s why I like to say that this martial art goes far beyond sport; it is a true philosophy of life that teaches the importance of focus, patience and execution.
These principles, when applied to entrepreneurship, become powerful tools for overcoming challenges and achieving goals.
Focus: the basis for success
In Jiu-Jitsu, losing focus can mean giving up a position or being submitted. In entrepreneurship, it is exactly the same thing. With so many demands and distractions, staying focused on goals and priorities is essential.
One lesson I learned on the mat is the importance of keeping a clear mind even under pressure. When we face an opponent, we cannot let ourselves be carried away by emotion or haste.
In the corporate world, this means making strategic decisions and not deviating from long-term goals, even in the face of obstacles.
For leaders, focus is more than just attention; it is knowing how to identify what really matters and dedicating energy to what will bring the best results.
Patience: understanding the right moment
Jiu-Jitsu is the art of patience. Often, an advantageous position or a finish only comes after minutes of study and small adjustments. Haste, in these moments, is the enemy of progress. As an entrepreneur, I have learned that the same is true in the business world.
Sustainable growth takes time. There is no point in wanting immediate results or trying to rush processes. Well-structured projects and carefully built relationships have a more lasting impact.
Therefore, just as on the mat, in entrepreneurship, it is important to know how to wait for the right moment to act – whether to launch a new product, establish a partnership or expand the operation.
Execution: from theory to practice
In Jiu-Jitsu, studying techniques without applying them is like reading about business without undertaking it. Everything we learn must be tested in practice. Execution is the link that transforms knowledge into results.
In entrepreneurship, execution does not mean just taking action, but acting with precision and consistency. In leading SEDA College, I learned that having ideas is just the beginning.
What really sets a leader apart is the ability to transform strategies into concrete actions and to correct course whenever necessary. Just like in Jiu-Jitsu, improvement comes with daily and constant practice.
A journey of continuous evolution
Jiu-Jitsu and entrepreneurship have something in common: they are both journeys with no shortcuts. Every defeat on the mat is an opportunity to learn, just as every mistake in business is a chance to adjust strategy.
The combination of focus, patience and execution has been fundamental in my career. As CEO, I believe that the balance between these elements is what builds sustainable results and strong leadership.
