What Jiu-jitsu Taught Me About the Alchemy of Growth

My journey with jiu-jitsu reminded me of some core lessons from Rory Sutherland’s Alchemy (if you haven’t read this, add it to your holiday reading list!).

Sutherland emphasizes that logic isn’t always the best path to solving problems, and jiu-jitsu proves that daily.

Success on the mat isn’t just about raw strength or straightforward techniques; it’s about creativity, adaptability, and thinking beyond the obvious.

1️⃣ Tiny Tweaks, Big Impacts
A small adjustment in grip or angle can completely change the outcome of a move—just like small behavioral shifts can drive massive results in marketing or business.

2️⃣ Keep Experimenting
There’s no “perfect” way to win; you’re always learning, trying, failing, and improving, even if it means starting over from scratch. Similar to the Alchemy book theme of celebrating “irrational” ideas that lead to breakthroughs.

3️⃣ Perception is Power
Learn to be comfortable with discomfort; constantly being in tough positions trains not just your body but your mind to stay composed and focused under pressure.—an idea echoed in the book’s emphasis on how framing influences outcomes.

Jiu-jitsu has been my reminder that growth happens when we let go of our egos, abandon rigid logic, embrace curiosity, experimentation, and perspective shifts.

Whether it’s on the mat or in life, staying consistent through challenges
—even when you’re “getting crushed”—is where the magic 🪄 happens.