Should You Have External Goals in Jiu Jitsu?

This article explores whether Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners should pursue external goals like tournament victories or belt promotions.

The Value of Intrinsic Motivation

Consistent practitioners often share a common trait: they train because they genuinely love the process. When the desire to improve comes from within, progress occurs more organically.

Internal drive—finding reward in learning itself rather than external achievements—represents the most sustainable form of motivation.

External Goals: Benefits and Risks

External objectives aren't inherently problematic. Concrete goals can provide:

• Direction and structured training priorities
• Short-term motivation during challenging periods
• Measurable indicators of advancement

However, overemphasizing results can create unnecessary pressure and diminish the enjoyment that initially drew practitioners to the sport.

The Professor's Perspective

External targets "must be a motor, not a burden." When practitioners train with passion and commitment, achievements naturally follow as consequences.

"In Jiu-Jitsu, what's most valuable isn't what you obtain, but who you become while pursuing it."

Finding the Balance

The key is to use external goals as navigation tools, not final destinations. A new belt or a medal are markers along the way, but true growth lies in the daily journey.

Ask yourself: Would you still train if there were never another tournament, another promotion, another external recognition? If the answer is yes, you've found the motivation that will carry you through decades of practice.

Conclusion

External goals have their place in Jiu-Jitsu, but they shouldn't be the center of your practice. Let your love for the art guide you, and achievements will come as a natural side effect of your dedication.