I made a New Year’s resolution at the beginning of 2014 to be more positive about situations. The second half of 2013 was definitely a rough point for me. School and a few other things in my life weren’t going smoothly, which made me feel like crap during training and in general. I accepted the fact that I wasn’t 100% happy with my life, and I told myself I needed to make some changes to my attitude.
A New Year and a New Attitude
Since the beginning of this year, I’ve been making a conscious effort to be less of a negative Nancy about things. I can’t say I’ve been perfect throughout the process, and I’ve definitely slipped up. The important thing is I’m finally at a point where I can say I’m excited to get up and live out the day. I also think I’m starting to stress less about the little things.
I believe the reason I’ve been so happy lately is God. My faith in Him has recently been restored, and since that happened I feel like my life has more guidance and meaning. Aside from being generally happier, getting closer to God has caused me to make even more positive changes, including cursing less and controlling my temper.
Training This Week
This positive change in my life has definitely translated to the mats. I get excited to train and learn new things rather than just going through the motions. I want to make sure I’m doing everything I can to improve, so I’ve been thinking a little more dynamically and asking more questions. Lately, I’ve been taking advantage of all the upper ranks at Scranton MMA. I try to pick their brains about moves I’m having trouble with or how to overcome certain mental blocks. I received a lot of great advice this week, and I plan on using it for the future.
Recently we’ve added more no-gi sessions to the schedule in order to get ready for the No-Gi Pan Ams. It’s a good way to switch things up for everyone, and it’s nice to have something new and fresh to work on. Because of the added sessions, I’ve been getting a lot more no-gi rounds. I must admit no gi isn’t usually my strong suit, but it’s starting to grow on me. Working on it more and more has built up my confidence.
Aside from my regular training, the only other thing I’ve been doing to get ready for the No-Gi Pan Ams is eat healthy. Because of school I’m not able to go to Driven Athletics during the week and get my weight training in. It sucks not having that as part of my training anymore, but I think I’m doing well without it. As for eating healthy, it’s not much of a challenge anymore. It’s finally become a lifestyle rather than trying to go on ridiculous diets and cycling through phases.
I believe I’m doing everything I can to get ready for the No Gi Pans. Now it’s just a matter of staying consistent and confident. I hope you all enjoyed my entry this week. Later, dudes and dudettes!
Jess Papi is a blue belt at Scranton MMA and also pursuing her degree in exercise science. Read her entries every week for insights on competing, training, and juggling BJJ and life.
