On the mat, the lessons we learn go far beyond technique. Jiu-Jitsu taught me values that I carry into my personal and professional life, especially regarding respect and hierarchy.
These principles, fundamental to the functioning of any academy, are equally indispensable for leading teams with efficiency and harmony.
Respect as the basis of everything
Respect in Jiu-Jitsu is not just an act of education, but a foundation for learning and coexistence. Regardless of level or experience, each person on the mat has something to teach.
This vision is reflected in team leadership: listening to and valuing each member, recognizing their contributions and treating everyone with dignity are attitudes that strengthen the work environment.
As a leader, I realize that respect creates trust, which is the basis for a team that works together towards the same goal. When we lead with respect, we are able to inspire and engage the people around us.
Hierarchy as a structure, not as power
The hierarchy in Jiu-Jitsu is clear: there is a black belt, a teacher who guides training, and there are students at different levels of learning.
However, this hierarchy is not about power, but about responsibility. The role of those in a higher position is to help those behind them to grow, respecting each person’s pace.
This same logic is essential in the corporate world. Leadership is not about imposing, but supporting and guiding. Good leadership is built by offering the tools and support necessary for each team member to reach their potential.
Just like on the mat, the leader must also be humble enough to recognize that he or she still has something to learn, including from his or her subordinates.
Respect and hierarchy in balance
In Jiu-Jitsu, there is a natural balance between respect and hierarchy. The most experienced teach, but also learn by reinforcing fundamentals. The less experienced follow the guidelines, but have room to question and evolve.
When we apply this balance to teams, we create a healthy environment where people understand their roles but know they are valued.
As a leader, I seek to create this balance on a daily basis, cultivating a space where everyone has a voice, but where there is also clarity of roles and responsibilities.
After all, without respect, hierarchy becomes authoritarian; without hierarchy, respect loses direction.
Leadership beyond the mat
What I learned in Jiu-Jitsu transformed my view of leadership. At work, as in sports, results are built collectively.
A leader needs to know how to balance discipline with empathy, hierarchy with openness, and always maintain respect as a core value.
The mat is a reflection of life: we learn to fall, to get up, to fight and to respect. I take these lessons with me every day, both in corporate challenges and in training.
Because, in the end, leading is like fighting Jiu-Jitsu: it is not about winning alone, but about growing together with the team. Do you agree?
