This weekend I competed in a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournament called Tap Cancer Out, where proceeds support organizations fighting cancer. It’s a fantastic cause and a well-run competition.
It was my third tournament and my first time winning a match by submission. My opponent ended up in a position where I could choke him with his gi 🥋.
Cha-ching!
I had two other matches for a medal opportunity, but lost those to submission as well. My medals this time are shoulder pain, hip pain and subtle limp when I walk, which I’ll be wearing for a few days.
No biggie. Not my first competition, won’t be my last either.
Competing has me thinking about the 3 core values I've identified for my life:
Be Brave. Stay Silly. Keep Fighting.
"Be Brave" is about starting. It's about facing a difficult opportunity and saying yes. Whether it's a tough conversation, a monumental goal, or a painful process, I want to be the type of person that chooses to move forward in the face of discomfort. Fear is a key factor. You can’t be brave if the opportunity isn’t scary.
"Stay Silly" is about maintaining a joyful, unhindered approach to life. It's about finding fun and opportunity in a challenging situation. It's being willing to laugh at yourself before anyone else catches on. It's a willingness to ask a dumb question, take an unconventional approach, and risk further embarrassment because your pursuit of joy is stronger than your desire of acceptance.
"Keep Fighting" is about the commitment to improve, win or lose. The world brings a fight daily, so keep your boxing gloves on and mouthpiece nearby. You need to fight for clarity, family, health, wealth, and anything else worth it. Fight for the best solution, even if it's not yours. Fight to achieve your goals, even if you can't see your progress behind you.
As you move forward this week, keep those 3 core values in mind.
Feel free to borrow, steal, lend, or sell them on eBay. I hope they help you approach each day with bravery, silliness, and grit.
Start, because it's worth it.
Have fun, because joy is a choice.
Keep going, because challenges await daily.
Be Brave. Stay Silly. Keep Fighting.
I’m rooting for you.
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