At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we strive to embody excellence both on and off the mats. One of the most powerful principles we encourage our students to embrace is the idea that good is the enemy of great. This timeless concept, popularized by Jim Collins in his book Good to Great, reminds us that settling for “good enough” can prevent us from reaching our full potential.
Collins identifies key principles that help organizations and individuals make the leap from good to great, and these ideas are directly applicable to Jiu Jitsu training and life. Here’s how we can integrate these lessons into our journey.
1. Level 5 Leadership: Humility Meets Drive
Collins argues that the best leaders have a unique combination of personal humility and intense professional will. In Jiu Jitsu, the same mindset applies. Great practitioners don’t need to boast or dominate to prove their skill. They consistently show up, train with intention, and push themselves and their teammates to grow.
For instance, a blue belt who seeks to improve every detail of their game—rather than simply relying on what already works—demonstrates this balance. They remain humble enough to learn from others and driven enough to achieve mastery.
2. The Hedgehog Concept: Focus on What You Do Best
The Hedgehog Concept encourages us to identify the intersection of three elements:
- What we are deeply passionate about.
- What we can be the best at.
- What drives our results.
For Jiu Jitsu students, this means understanding your unique style and focusing on refining it. Are you a guard player? A takedown specialist? Instead of spreading yourself thin trying to master every aspect of Jiu Jitsu at once, hone in on your strengths. Greatness comes from doubling down on what you’re best at while maintaining a deep love for the process.
3. The Flywheel Effect: Build Momentum Over Time
Collins describes greatness as a flywheel: small, consistent pushes that eventually create unstoppable momentum. In Jiu Jitsu, this translates to showing up to class even when you feel tired, drilling techniques with intention, and focusing on incremental progress.
A black belt isn’t earned overnight—it’s the result of years of steady effort. When you commit to the process, you’ll notice that the techniques that once felt impossible eventually become second nature.
4. Confront the Brutal Facts: Be Honest About Weaknesses
To move from good to great, Collins emphasizes the need to confront reality, even when it’s uncomfortable. In Jiu Jitsu, this might mean recognizing a weak area in your game. Maybe your guard retention needs work, or perhaps your cardio is holding you back.
Instead of avoiding these truths, address them head-on. The path to greatness requires embracing your vulnerabilities and turning them into strengths.
5. Disciplined Action: Consistency Over Time
Collins explains that greatness isn’t about grand gestures but disciplined action over time. For Jiu Jitsu practitioners, this means adhering to a routine, maintaining focus during training, and always striving to improve.
Good students come to class sporadically or train without clear goals. Great students show up consistently, study technique, and commit to disciplined practice.
Embracing Greatness at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu
At EDH Jiu Jitsu, we encourage all of our students—whether you’re a brand-new white belt or a seasoned competitor—to avoid the trap of settling for “good enough.” The journey from good to great requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn and grow.
By adopting principles like the Flywheel Effect, disciplined action, and humility, you’ll not only elevate your Jiu Jitsu but also enrich other aspects of your life. Greatness isn’t reserved for the naturally gifted; it’s a choice, a commitment to excellence made day after day.
Let’s choose greatness together—one day at a time.
