There’s an interesting article over at “The Good Men Project” about how those who suffer from addictions, or have addictive personalities have a hyper focus, an ability that almost makes them super human.
First and foremost I disagree with calling an addict “super human”. Superhuman almost implies an advantageous ability, and I feel the term in almost a weird romanticizes a real mental health problem. Inhibited dopamine receptors and the inability to readjust one’s focus, or to take something to such an extreme that it becomes detrimental to the person and those around them is not something to view through rose colored lenses.
So, what does this have to do with jiu jitsu? Eh, at first blush nothing really. It was more just an interesting article that I found: although you could think about it, I’m sure you could think of some jiu jitsu addicts. I’m not just talking about people who stalk sherdog forums all day and watch Youtube videos of every instructional ever made. I’m talking about the people who just want to drill and train and drill and train and train and drill, and all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy…
I had mentioned before that jiu jitsu should not be an escape from your problems-which a reader was very kind and turned into a quote on twitter (thanks!). There are so many benefits that can be gained from training, but when you think about it there are several pitfalls that can turn jiu jitsu, a very good thing, into a very bad thing., but mainly we’re talking about the need for repetition and training that can eat away at the hours-that hyper focus that is referred to in the article can alienate friends and family as the person solely focuses on drilling and training and the next tournament. That’s why keeping mindful of a balance, setting aside both time for jiu jitsu AND having a healthy amount of time outside of the gym is crucial.
I should note here I’m not solely picking on jiu jitsu: it’s just that’s what this blog is about, so that’s what I’m relating it to: really, anything done in excess and becomes harmful to you and others can become a bad thing.
Anyway, check out the article and let me know what you think- otherwise, have a good day everyone!
A Skirt on the Mat 