BJJ Mental Models is pleased to present The War Within, a 6-part audio course on mental performance featuring Erin Herle!
Erin is a competitor black belt under the legendary Rubens "Cobrinha" Charles, a certified mental performance consultant, the founder of Train Ya Mind, and the founder of the Jiu-Jitsu mental health non-profit organization #SubmitTheStigma.
Course contents:
The War Within Ep. 1: Self-Compassion, feat. Erin Herle
In the first episode of The War Within, we discuss Self-Compassion. Erin introduces strategies for practicing self-compassion and mindfulness, while sharing tips on overcoming self-criticism and perfectionism. Erin also highlights the role of community and connection in Jiu-Jitsu.
The War Within Ep. 2: Self-Presentation, feat. Erin Herle
In the second episode of The War Within, Erin Herle discusses Self-Presentation. Topics include the impact of self-presentation on internal performance and mindset, aligning actions with core values, the dynamics of psychological safety within training, respect and empathy amongst practitioners, self-handicapping, and imposter syndrome.
The War Within Ep. 3: Self-Determination, feat. Erin Herle
In the third episode of The War Within, Erin Herle discusses Self-Determination. Topics include the three psychological needs identified in self-determination theory — autonomy, competence, and relatedness — and how these ideals intersect with Jiu-Jitsu training. Erin highlights various barriers to self-determination prevalent in traditional Jiu-Jitsu cultures, such as rigid hierarchies and discouragement of inquiry, which can hinder personal growth. We also explore different types of motivation affecting Jiu-Jitsu practitioners and discuss how self-worth is often tied to performance in the sport. Finally, we stress the importance of self-reflection and alignment of personal values with Jiu-Jitsu practice to avoid burnout, drawing on personal experiences to underline our points.
The War Within Ep. 4: Self-Regulation 1/2, feat. Erin Herle
In the fourth episode of The War Within, Erin Herle delves into the first of two episodes on self-regulation. Topics include the distinction between self-control and self-regulation, the importance of goal-setting and emotional management in competitive scenarios, emotional extremes, the significance of data tracking for self-awareness, and various self-regulation techniques, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and arousal management strategies.
The War Within Ep. 5: Self-Regulation 2/2, feat. Erin Herle
In the fifth episode of The War Within, Erin Herle continues our discussion on self-regulation. She focuses on the intricate relationship between arousal, self-regulation, and performance in competitive settings. Erin defines arousal as physiological activation that influences decision-making and performance. Topics include emotional contagion, drive theory, inverted U theory, and strategies for managing arousal.
The War Within Ep. 6: Self-Confidence, feat. Erin Herle
In the sixth and final episode of The War Within, Erin Herle discusses a topic you probably all came here to learn: self-confidence. Building on the foundation established in the earlier five episodes, Erin begins by defining self-confidence as trusting oneself and emphasizing the importance of authenticity over superficiality. Erin explains how past failures, perfectionism, and negative self-talk can trigger self-doubt, while highlighting strategies to build confidence, such as focusing on controllable aspects of performance and cultivating resilience. We also discuss the role of coaches and training environments, the importance of self-reflection, celebrating personal progress, and fostering supportive environments for growth.