BJJ 12 Rules for Life

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art and combat sport that focuses on grappling and ground fighting. It emphasizes the use of technique and leverage to overcome opponents, making it accessible to people of all sizes and strengths. Beyond its physical benefits, BJJ offers profound mental and emotional advantages, fostering discipline, resilience, and a sense of community.

Jordan Peterson's "12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos" is a guide to living a meaningful life through practical and philosophical advice. Each rule addresses fundamental aspects of human behavior and personal development.

This article explores how the practice of BJJ aligns with and enhances each of these rules, providing a unique perspective on the transformative power of this martial art.

Rule 1: Stand up straight with your shoulders back

Confidence is a cornerstone of both BJJ and personal development. In BJJ, proper posture and stance are crucial for effective technique and defense. Training in BJJ instills a sense of confidence and assertiveness as practitioners learn to handle themselves in challenging situations. This physical confidence translates to mental and emotional strength, helping individuals stand up for themselves and face life's challenges head-on.

Rule 2: Treat yourself like someone you are responsible for helping

BJJ requires practitioners to take care of their bodies and minds. Regular training demands discipline in diet, rest, and physical conditioning. By treating oneself with the same care and attention one would offer a loved one, BJJ practitioners develop a deeper sense of self-respect and responsibility. This principle aligns with Peterson's advice to prioritize self-care and well-being.

Rule 3: Make friends with people who want the best for you

The BJJ community is known for its camaraderie and support. Training partners push each other to improve, providing encouragement and constructive feedback. This environment fosters friendships based on mutual respect and shared goals. Surrounding oneself with positive influences, as advocated by Peterson, is a natural outcome of engaging in BJJ.

Rule 4: Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who someone else is today

BJJ emphasizes personal growth and progress. Practitioners track their development through belts and skills, focusing on incremental improvements rather than comparing themselves to others. This mindset encourages self-reflection and continuous self-improvement, aligning perfectly with Peterson's rule to measure oneself against one's past self rather than others.

Rule 5: Do not let your children do anything that makes you dislike them

BJJ teaches discipline, respect, and self-control, especially in children's classes. These values are instilled through structured training and the guidance of experienced instructors. By promoting positive behavior and accountability, BJJ helps shape children into respectful and disciplined individuals, aligning with Peterson's advice on parenting.

Rule 6: Set your house in perfect order before you criticize the world

Mastering BJJ requires focusing on fundamentals and self-discipline. Practitioners must refine their techniques and understand their own strengths and weaknesses before critiquing others. This self-awareness and commitment to personal growth mirror Peterson's rule about putting one's affairs in order before addressing external issues.

Rule 7: Pursue what is meaningful (not what is expedient)

BJJ is a long-term commitment that yields meaningful benefits over time. The journey from white belt to black belt is filled with challenges, requiring perseverance and dedication. Practitioners learn to value the process and the meaningful growth it brings, rather than seeking quick fixes or shortcuts. This aligns with Peterson's emphasis on pursuing meaningful goals.

Rule 8: Tell the truth – or, at least, don't lie

Honesty and integrity are fundamental in BJJ. Practitioners must be truthful about their abilities and limitations to improve genuinely. This culture of honesty extends to interactions with training partners and instructors, fostering a transparent and accountable environment. Peterson's rule about honesty is reflected in the ethical standards upheld in BJJ.

Rule 9: Assume that the person you are listening to might know something you don't

BJJ promotes humility and a willingness to learn from others. Every practitioner, regardless of rank, has unique insights and experiences. This openness to learning and respect for others' knowledge aligns with Peterson's advice to approach conversations with humility and a readiness to learn.

Rule 10: Be precise in your speech

Clear communication is essential in BJJ, both in giving and receiving instructions. Precision in speech ensures that techniques are executed correctly and safely. This focus on clear and accurate communication mirrors Peterson's rule about the importance of being precise in one's speech.

Rule 11: Do not bother children when they are skateboarding

BJJ encourages taking calculated risks and pushing one's limits. Practitioners learn to navigate discomfort and face challenges head-on, building resilience and confidence. This aligns with Peterson's rule about allowing individuals to take risks and learn from their experiences.

Rule 12: Pet a cat when you encounter one on the street

BJJ teaches the importance of balance between intensity and relaxation. Training can be physically and mentally demanding, but it also provides moments of joy, camaraderie, and mindfulness. This balance reflects Peterson's advice to find small moments of happiness and mindfulness in everyday life.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu offers a unique and powerful way to embody the principles outlined in Jordan Peterson's "12 Rules for Life." Through its physical, mental, and emotional challenges, BJJ fosters personal growth, discipline, and a sense of community. By integrating the lessons of BJJ with Peterson's rules, individuals can enhance their journey toward a meaningful and fulfilling life.