The Judo of web3: A Journey of Personal Growth

In the world of martial arts, judo's philosophy encompasses two principles: 精力善用 'good use of energy' and 自他共栄, ' mutual welfare and benefit' (source). For me, judo is a discipline emphasizing balance, leverage, and adaptability. These principles don't just apply on the mat; they are practical metaphors for the personal growth I've experienced while working in the web3 ecosystem.

Balance

In judo, balance is everything. Without it, you're vulnerable and easily toppled. The same holds for web3 and tech in general. Balancing different aspects of your professional life— personal coding projects, learning, collaboration, and self-care—is crucial. When I started in 2017, I often found myself consumed by the sheer volume of topics I didn't know and the rapid pace of change in the areas I was interested in, like the dapps that interact with Ethereum. However, as I learned to maintain a working balance, I realized that it's not just about how much you do but how well you manage your energy and focus. This balance lets you stay grounded, think clearly, and decide where to go next.

Leverage

Judo teaches you to use your opponent's force to your advantage through leverage and counterbalancing your vulnerable areas with your strengths. In web3, leverage comes from making the most of your skills and resources. Early in my web3 career, I learned that leveraging my core strengths—experimenting, researching, and leadership skills—can help me navigate the inevitable challenges that emerge more effectively. I've successfully tackled complex projects by focusing on what I'm good at and constantly honing those skills.

Adaptability

The ability to adapt is a fundamental principle in judo. Techniques must be fluid and responsive to the ever-changing dynamics of a match. Similarly, the blockchain tech industry is constantly in flux, with new frameworks, tools, and trends emerging regularly. Embracing adaptability instead of fearing change has strengthened my growth mindset and allowed me to stay relevant, whether adopting new technologies or pivoting strategies when faced with unexpected changes.

Respect

In judo, respect for your opponent and instructor is paramount. This respect fosters a positive learning environment and trust-filled strong relationships. In tech, collaboration and teamwork are vital. Showing respect for colleagues, valuing diverse perspectives, and fostering a culture of mutual support have been instrumental in my professional growth.

Closing

My amateur experience so far in judo has provided me with insights that parallel my personal growth in the web3 industry. The principles of balance, leverage, adaptability, and respect are essential for thriving in blockchain technology's fast-paced, ever-evolving world.