This episode first appeared on The Highest Levels, a BJJ Mental Models Premium show hosted by Emily Kwok and Joe Hannan. The Highest Levels is all about dissecting the tactics and psychology of optimal human performance -- work that Emily and Joe do daily with some of the world's leading performers in finance, science, and professional athletics. In addition to being Joe's Jiu Jitsu coach and colleague in the consulting business, Emily is also Joe's friend and business partner at Princeton Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. In this episode, Emily helps Joe process his experiences from competing at the New York Open, offering action-oriented glimpses of how everyday athletes and humans can use peak performance modalities to catalyze their athletic and personal growth. Key Takeaways Progress requires looking deeply within to identify our demons, then coming up with plans to exorcize them Growth through competitive experience is often challenging, and the degree of challenge suggests the degree of growth on the other side Transformative growth is possible when we embrace a life of training that touches everything we do on and off the mats If you want more episodes of The Highest Levels and access to the full course library, coaching services, and podcast network, sign up for BJJ Mental Models Premium: https://www.bjjmentalmodels.com/. Work with me: https://www.bjjmeditations.com/schedule-a-coaching-session