Accelerated Problem Solving

In Jiu-Jitsu, you are always solving problems. Every position, every grip, every move your opponent makes — it’s all a puzzle you have to figure out.

Most people solve problems after they lose.

They compete, they lose, they go home, watch footage, study, fix mistakes — and wait for the next competition.

That process is good, but it’s slow. It can take months between each cycle: test, fail, learn, retest.

If you want to be great, you need to solve problems during the match — not after.

Some athletes can adjust during the match.

They try a move — it fails — they immediately change.

They try again — another adjustment — closer.

Again, until they find the solution before the match ends.

They are running the full cycle — test, fail, adapt, retest — inside a few minutes.

That’s a massive advantage.

If you only make improvements based on your tournament performance, you get better a few times a year.

If you improve in the match, you can fix mistakes immediately — and win the same match you were about to lose.

How to Build This Skill

• Train your mind during sparring.

Every time something fails, don’t stop. Keep adjusting. Find a second move. Find a third.

• Focus on understanding reactions, not just finishing moves.

When you attack, watch what happens. What is your opponent giving you? Where is the next space?

• Stay calm under pressure.

You can’t adapt if you panic. Always stay relaxed enough to think clearly, even when you’re losing positions.

• Be curious, not frustrated.

Every failure is information. You’re learning what doesn’t work — that gets you closer to what does.

If you can train yourself to solve problems inside the match, your opponents will always be a step behind.

You won’t just win matches — you’ll evolve faster than anyone else.