Winning the Moment: Letting Go of Flash, Embracing the Fundamentals

“Before enlightenment; chop wood and carry water. After enlightenment; chop wood and carry water.” – Gautama Buddha

Thought of the Day

Many times in life, we’re enticed by the quick fix, the easy answer, and become so focused on the destination that we miss the journey. In this age of easy buttons and instant gratification, it’s easy to forget the value of doing the basics well.

I see it on the Jiu Jitsu mats all the time. Lower—and even some higher—belts get drawn in by flashy Instagram moves rather than hammering the fundamentals until they become habit. They haven't spent enough time with the basics to notice the small, easily missed details. Mastery isn’t built on highlight reels. It's built on the countless micro-choices made daily that go unseen for years.

My most recent audiobook was Chop Wood, Carry Water by Joshua Medcalf. It was a powerful reminder of the principles that lead to mastery. It showed me where I had taken my eye off the ball and drifted from the journey. In my most recent Judo competition, the first day went well because I was fully present. The second day, I didn't show up as well—I was stuck thinking about how great the first day had been. That backward focus slowed me down and left me disappointed in my performance. Regardless of medals, I know that showing up and being present, even in a loss, will help me more than a win without presence ever could.

Next time you compete, make sure you show up and stay grounded in the now. Don’t take it too seriously. Win, lose, or draw—enjoy the journey.

If you’re a fan of Audible, consider checking out Chop Wood, Carry Water. It’s a quick listen but packed with insightful tidbits. In the gym, at work, and in life, it’s the little things that make the difference—not the quick fixes or flashy moves. Staying present and doing the small, seemingly unremarkable things over and over again—that’s what adds up.

Enjoy your journey this week, and keep doing the little things right.

Tuesday

1.     1. Back Squat

2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2

2.     2. 8 min AMRAP

30 DU

3 push jerks 125/185#

3.      3.10 Rnds

7/10 cal Bike

1 legless rope climb

4.     4. 42-30-18

Alt DB Snatches 35/50

Cal Row