Dojo Discernments
Hi all! Welcome back to Dojo Discernments where I share nuggets of thought earned on the mats! Been a busy month but we are back.
Where I've Been
The past few weeks took me to Orlando, Thailand, and Las Vegas: East Coast Trials, Asian Trials, and IBJJF Worlds.
A full month as both a competitor and a coach, and honestly, one of the most rewarding. Every trip brought new experience, new data, and new clarity.
What I Reccomend
If you ever find yourself in Thailand, carve out time to visit Koh Tao. Beyond being a beautiful island with world-class diving, there’s a standout 10th Planet school there.
Luke, the head instructor, runs an incredible program and holds down the 10P vibe with real care and craft.
Highly recommended if you’re looking to train while you travel.
What I'm Seeing
There are intangibles to winning.
Yes, dedication, technique, study, mat time… all of that matters. But there’s another layer most people overlook: being primed.
Energy, speed, sharpness.
You can know what to do and even know how to do it, but the state you show up in determines whether you can express that level. Winning is as much about capacity as it is about knowledge.
What I've Learned
I feel like the framework for consistent success—both for myself and for the athletes I coach, has finally locked into place.
The structure is built. The foundation is solid.
Everything from here is just doing the work and letting the results surface. I’m confident that champions will continue to come out of our programs.
What I'm Listening to
I picked this up from Balmore, whom you probably know as Andy, my coach.
It's been a great playlist for having God's presence fill the room.
May this newsletter find you well.
Thank you for being part of this community.
— Isaac
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