Last week, I shared a story about my experience getting schooled on the Jiu Jitsu mats by a 15-year-old opponent who weighed 60 pounds less than me in 2007. Long story short: I lost. Since then, I’ve been focused on getting better at Gracie Jiu Jitsu. The sport has taught me a lot about life and business, and I’m excited to explore those lessons and share them with you. Check out the blog post if you want a good laugh.

In Jiu Jitsu, as well as Judo, there is an idea about pushing and pulling. If somebody pushes against you and you push back, then the stronger person will win. If somebody pulls you and you pull back, the same thing happens (think tug of war). If somebody pushes against you, and you pull them as they push, you expend their energy and get them to go where you want. There are times to push and times to pull. When I went up to grapple that 15 year old, I came pushing at him hard, he knew I was stronger, so he just pulled me, redirected my energy, and threw me to the mats. In entrepreneurship, there are times to push, and times to pull. There are also times to stand still and wait to see what happens next. For many years, I went charging into business, and I was able to steamroll situations effectively. However, when I approach situations where my pushing will allow me to be pulled possibly to the mats, I sit back, am patient and wait for the time to move. The same is true when I feel like I am pulling too hard. Leaders do not need to pull, an impactful entrepreneur does not need to pull, they leverage the energy, creativity and passion of others while guiding their energy towards the goal, climbing the mountain and winning! A leader will effectively use the team’s momentum to propel them forward. Leaders are also aware to not let their own energy to be used against them. There are times they must stop, wait, evaluate to see what to do next and then act.

Are you pushing forward or applying force in your business and entrepreneurial path? Are you putting too much pressure in one direction? Are you timing your efforts effectively? Are you showing good leadership? How are you using momentum and energy in your business endeavors?

I hope you enjoyed this week’s blog. Look out for more insights next week! In the meantime, aim for impact in everything you do.