Last Saturday was a little unusual for me — and I thought you’d enjoy the story.
It all started on Monday night, when I got a call from an event promoter asking:
“Would you like to fight for the 185 lb F2Win Belt in California… with only 5 days’ notice?”
Now, you’ve all heard me say this before: “We should always be ready, because opportunities don’t send invitations.”
So of course, I said YES! 💪
Normally, when I compete out of town, I like to arrive at least one day early, rest at the hotel, eat properly, and prepare my mind. But this time, I had a bigger responsibility—teaching you, my students, and serving our community.
So instead of flying early and relaxing in California, I stayed here and taught our kids’ classes in the morning. Then, I hopped on a plane in the afternoon, took a nap on the flight ✈️, commentated a few matches, napped again, and went to do what I was supposed to do… compete.
And yes — I won and brought home the belt 🏆.
Two Big Lessons I Want to Share With You
1. Mindset is everything.
My match was at 11:30pm (way past my usual bedtime 😴). I felt my body wasn’t at its best. I had two choices:
- Focus on how tired I felt
- OR keep visualizing my game plan, see myself in dominant positions, and picture the belt around my waist.
I chose option 2. And that made all the difference.
2. Commitment comes first.
As much as I love to compete, nothing is more important than being here for my students. That’s why I taught those 2 kids’ classes before flying out. Because my commitment is to give you the best possible training every time.
These lessons connect directly with our Six Blades Principles:
ATTITUDE
The right attitude means carrying positivity in everything we do. It’s about inspiring others with our energy, showing resilience in tough moments, and stepping onto the mats ready to give our best. Attitude is the fuel that helps us face challenges with grit and determination.
DISCIPLINE
Discipline is the daily choice to do what is right, not just what is easy. It means showing up, staying consistent, and living by what is just and truthful. Discipline is the foundation that turns small efforts, repeated every day, into great achievements.
🥋 With Attitude and Discipline, we grow stronger as individuals and as a team.
I’m proud to compete and represent our school, but I’m even more proud to share these lessons with you.
See you on the mats,
Sensei Rodrigo
