Bio

Professor Flavio Almeida is a 3rd degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He’s been studying the gentle art since the age of 13 and during many years of work in and out the sport has developed his view about the parallels between Jiu-Jitsu and life. His background includes working as a BJJ instructor - his current profession, BJJ competitor, environmentalist, academic researcher for local development, risk management consultant, project manager, event manager, among other things. He holds a bachelor degree in economic science with emphasis in sustainable development.

It is said that the first thought that comes to one’s mind when challenged by a profound question is the most pure and the closest to the real meaning of the issue being discussed.

A very dear student of mine challenged me once with one of these questions. He did not know he would trigger such a deep reflection that would bring out the real meaning Jiu-Jitsu has in my life; a meaning that I have been searching for many years.

“Professor! What does Jiu-Jitsu mean to you?” - he asked. “I think I see my life through Jiu-Jitsu!” - I promptly answered.

His question and my immediate answered have been echoing in my head since then. I believe this blog is that echo. It is about seeing life through Jiu-Jitsu and the valuable lessons one can draw from such an extraordinary point of view.

For too long Jiu-Jitsu has been merely defined as a martial art style. Allow me to rescue a broader and, I believe, more fair definition of the gentle art: “Jiu-Jitsu is the fundamental principle of human behavior, relationships and organizations”.

 
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