Reflections of a Jiujiteiro: the origin story

Several of the professional-development books I’ve read over the past few weeks suggest keeping a journal of your day-to-day efforts is important for your personal and professional growth. The military labels this process the After Action Review (AAR). The situation report (SITREP) is the most routine form of this process, and a very effective way to keep an organization in the know. Who am I to argue with the professionals?

Bottom Line Up Front:

The intent of this project is to provide a snapshot of my trials and achievements over the past week. Why? The answer to this question is two-fold: (1) to document my experiences for my kids and future generations to help them through life’s obstacles; (2) to strengthen my skills as a communicator and gain insight from the many friends, family members, and professionals of whom wish to collaborate. It would be a shame in this era to not use such an effective communication tool such as social media to build relationships and establish a social network. Especially, since virtual is the primary means of maintaining community-relations during the current pandemic.

The Jiujiteiro Moniker:

Many will ask … “What’s with the Jiujiteiro kick all of a sudden?” Yes, it’s a recurring theme across all my social media platforms. However, I’ve been an active Brazilian Jiu-jitsu practitioner for nearly six years; and no, I’m not having a mid-life crisis, I’ve had several over the past few years already. The real reason I continue to brand myself as a practitioner of the gentle art is because besides my family, it’s the one thing I see myself actively involved in for many years to come. It’s a large part of who I am and what keeps me going when the days get long and the stress continues to compound. I intend to have my own academy one day, I intend to compete after we overcome the COVID-19 pandemic, and I will continue to raise my family in this lifestyle because it will give them the tools to overcome the many challenges life will throw their way.

For the Academics:

In terms of how this project should be viewed for my fellow researchers in the virtual space, this will be an attempt at a qualitative research phenomenological study using a participant observation framework to produce a narrative inquiry to be evaluated in the future to determine best practices and identify lessons learned. For further breakdown of the research approach see works by Edmund Husserl, Martin Heidegger, and Max Van Manen. In short, I’m going to tell a story from my lived experience as a family man, military professional, and martial artist. It’s going to be awesome…

What’s Next:

Sit back and enjoy the show! This past week there have been great gains in my self-development goals. I finished two books: “Becoming the Black Belt” by Professor Roy Dean, and “The Road to Black Belt” by Professor Tom DeBlass. I’ve dedicated the past month focusing on research surrounding a fighter’s mentality. My assessment is the most resilient mindset on the market is based around the Incremental Learning theory according to Josh Waitzkin. Additionally, Claudia and I, participated in Professor Tom Deblass’ virtual jiu-jitsu seminar further refining our skills as practitioners and to better understand concepts around techniques as well as teaching the art. Why’s this important…

What I will reference as a Warrior Mindset moving forward, is a mindset which allows the practitioner, professional, or competitor, the ability to refine processes to overcome obstacles after getting they kick you in the face. Do not be afraid of failure, be afraid of not taking advantage of the opportunity. I’ve regained a newfound motivation to test my metal after my literary journey. It’s not looking good for 2020, but 2021 will be a new year with new opportunity. I’m at a point in my life where acting like a kid again is critical. Not only does it allow you to be inquisitive, but it prioritizes fun which leads to joy and happiness.

I’ve now moved on to the phase of my self-development model focusing on the emotional/ spiritual aspects of life. I’m five chapters into “Man’s Search for Ultimate Meaning” by Viktor Frankl. At this point it’s done a great job breaking down consciousness, religion, and epistemology. I’ll let you know where this road leads me, but will enjoy the journey nonetheless. Any recommendations to books to reference on this growth topic will be greatly appreciated, in the cue are: “This Will Make You Smarter” by John Brockman and “The Art of Peace” by Morihei Ueshiba. Until next week my friends, and you are all more than welcome to connect with me on my other platforms. Roll easy!

Additional social media platforms:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/AnthonyDocClas

Instagram:@anthonydocclas

Twitter: @anthonymclas

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCy_rUgabYpG0eG_pLdcYefA?

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-clas-ed-d-029a7079/

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