We had the incredible opportunity to engage in a meaningful dialogue with Jacob Brinnand, a dedicated martial artist and entrepreneur, and we’re excited to share the insights we gleaned from our conversation below.
Hi Jacob, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Hello everyone, I’m Jacob A. Brinnand, and I’ve dedicated my life to the pursuit of mastery in martial arts, both in my personal journey and professional endeavors. For many, the ambition may be to excel in fighting, but teaching martial arts is an entirely different skill set. It requires not only expertise in the art but also immense patience, clarity in communication, and the ability to break down complex techniques into easily digestible lessons for students.
To illustrate, teaching a three-year-old isn’t just a hypothetical scenario—it’s a reality I face often, along with instructing five-year-olds who are newcomers to any sport. Approaching these sessions requires a meditative mindset; every advanced technique must be distilled into its simplest form, ensuring that the learning experience remains both challenging and enjoyable for young minds eager to learn.
On the opposite side, there’s the business aspect of running a martial arts school. I originally believed that one must achieve complete mastery over martial arts to successfully operate a gym. However, after training for over 20 years under four esteemed masters, I discovered that strong business acumen is equally vital. Surprisingly, we were able to enroll 120 students not solely based on my martial arts credentials, but rather through solid and effective business practices. Operating a martial arts school is a balancing act that demands excellence in both teaching and business management: nurturing students with patience and clarity while also maintaining a successful and sustainable operation.
Managing work-life balance has been a transformative journey for me, honing both my skills as an instructor and refining my organizational systems. Teaching provides me with a profound sense of purpose, while running a business has instilled resilience within me. As time progressed, I began to redefine balance as the ability to adapt to what each phase of my journey demands.
During my high school graduation, I received a piece of advice that resonated deeply: “Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” Embracing this guidance, I embarked on a lifelong mission to ultimately become a master martial artist. This unwavering passion has shaped my entire life journey, providing profound purpose, albeit through numerous challenges including rigorous training under four distinguished masters, teaching diverse students, and navigating the intricacies of business management.
Finding true balance has been a continuous evolution, but I can confidently say I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything in the world. Each day offers unique lessons and opportunities for growth, reinforcing the idea that while pursuing one’s passions may be marked by obstacles, every leap is immensely worthwhile.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My style of martial arts represents a harmonious blend of tradition and modern applications—an evolution shaped by years of testing, adapting, and blending various disciplines. The distinguishing feature of my approach is the fusion of traditional martial arts with foundational elements from MMA and kickboxing. Sparring, in my philosophy, is an essential component from the get-go—it serves as the ultimate proving ground for technique and mindset. While many traditional schools postpone sparring, in my classes, students engage in sparring early. This method allows them to witness firsthand how traditional techniques and principles can enhance their skills, signifying that tradition possesses immense relevance in contemporary martial arts, enriching the practice far beyond mere technique.
Reaching this juncture wasn’t without its challenges. It’s within those very challenges that the most valuable lessons are learned. I never shied away from adversity; rather, I adapted and transformed my approach. Throughout my journey, I encountered criticism and even threats for upholding the dignity of traditional arts. Many individuals cling rigidly to the belief that their chosen style reigns supreme, but I maintain an open mind and remain ready to test, learn, and evolve.
This journey has instilled in me resilience, patience, and the significance of maintaining focus on the path ahead. Over the years, everything began to align almost as if guided by synchronicity. It took two decades for me to carve out my niche within the industry, but when success arrived, it felt akin to the culmination of all my hard work coalescing in a single moment. My message to everyone is clear: envision your goals, pursue them with unwavering determination, and fight for your dreams with steadfast patience. The universe often lends a hand to those who courageously strive for a greater purpose and are willing to invest the effort needed to bring their vision to fruition.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Here’s a carefully curated 5-day adventure that promises an unforgettable exploration filled with culinary delights and cultural immersion for anyone with a best friend visiting:
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
Morning: We would commence the day at the Teo Chew Chinese Buddhist Temple, where stunning architecture meets serene energy, providing a tranquil start to our journey.
Afternoon: Next, we’d visit the Indian Temple in Sugarland, experiencing breathtaking colors, intricate carvings, and an atmosphere steeped in spirituality and wonder.
Evening: We’d wrap up the day with a comforting dinner at a Chinese all-you-can-eat buffet, enjoying a laid-back dining experience steeped in flavor.
Day 2: Culinary and Cultural Immersion
Morning: We start the day immersed in the vibrant Mahatma Gandhi District, exploring bustling markets, collecting spices, and possibly indulging in fresh Indian sweets.
Afternoon: Lunch at a Mediterranean favorite allows us to savor delicious shawarma and falafel—fuel for our adventures.
Evening: Dinner in the heart of Chinatown lets us enjoy classic dim sum, enveloped in vibrant, authentic flavors that celebrate tradition.
Day 3: Fun and Games
Daytime: Our day would be filled with excitement at Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, where we’d experience kart racing, a plethora of arcade games, and exhilarating laser tag adventures.
Evening: A delightful dinner in the Filipino Food District closes our day perfectly with traditional dishes like adobo, lumpia, and a sweet halo-halo for dessert.
Day 4: City Vibes and Quiet Moments
Morning: The day begins with a peaceful nature walk, allowing time for reflection while enjoying the fresh air and meaningful conversation.
Afternoon: Heading downtown, we’d embark on an exploration of local shops, appreciate some street art, or discover a small gallery filled with creativity.
Evening: Dinner in Little India invites us to experience bold flavors paired with rich, authentic Indian dishes, perfectly capping off the day.
Day 5: A Farewell Feast and Reflections
Morning: A relaxed morning is spent revisiting favorite spots from the week, cherishing shared memories.
Afternoon/Evening: We finish the adventure with an exquisite farewell meal at an authentic Southeast Asian restaurant, taking moments to savor every bite while toasting to a week replete with laughter and discovery.
This itinerary is designed to showcase the best of cultural experiences, delectable cuisines, and a harmonious blend of serene and exhilarating moments, centered around sharing cherished values with those closest to us.
First, I had the honor of training under Great Grandmaster YC Wong, a master of Kung Fu who imparted the critical importance of precision and adherence to tradition. Next, Great Grandmaster Crispulo “Ising” Atillo taught me about the intricacies of Atillo Balintawak Arnis-Eskrima (Original Saavedra Style) through his immense depth of knowledge in Filipino martial arts. In addition, Kathy Long, a five-time world champion in kickboxing, professional fighter, MMA expert, and Kung Fu San Soo master, inspired me with her teachings on endurance, focus, and resilience. Lastly, my training with Rene, a Navy SEAL who served during the Cuban Missile Crisis and mastered Pentjak Silat and Wing Chun, imparted invaluable lessons on versatility and courage.
Each of these remarkable teachers has contributed significantly to my martial arts journey, pouring their wisdom and experience into my development. Only after years of diligent learning was I able to cultivate my own methodology, synthesizing their teachings into a system that I humbly share with others today. They truly represent the support that has shaped my path and brought me to where I stand today.
Image Credits
Premier Martial Arts. Barker Cypress. Jacob A. Brinnand.
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How has Jacob Brinnand’s experience in martial arts influenced his approach to work-life balance?
**Interview with Jacob Brinnand: A Deep Dive into Martial Arts Mastery and Work-Life Balance**
*In our recent conversation with Jacob Brinnand, a veteran martial artist and entrepreneur, we explored his unique journey in the world of martial arts, the delicate balance between work and personal life, and his recommendations for those visiting his city.*
**Interviewer:** Hi Jacob! It’s great to have you here. You’ve devoted a significant part of your life to martial arts. How has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over the years?
**Jacob Brinnand:** Thank you for having me! My understanding of work-life balance has transformed dramatically. Initially, I believed that to run a successful martial arts school, you need to achieve complete mastery in the art itself. After training for over 20 years and learning under respected masters, I’ve come to realize that strong business skills are just as crucial. Now, I see balance as being adaptable to each phase of my life—embracing the seasons of teaching, managing business, and nurturing my personal growth.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the importance of teaching and the unique challenges that come with it. Could you elaborate on that?
**Jacob Brinnand:** Absolutely! Teaching martial arts, especially to young children, is not just about demonstrating techniques. It involves a unique blend of patience, clarity, and the ability to make complex ideas accessible. When I teach three- and five-year-olds, I approach the sessions with a meditative mindset, breaking down advanced techniques into simple, engaging lessons that offer both challenge and enjoyment.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like a rewarding yet demanding role. How do you cultivate your teaching methodology?
**Jacob Brinnand:** My methodology is a fusion of traditional martial arts and modern practices, influenced by years of training and adapting different disciplines. For instance, I prioritize sparring early in training, allowing students to experience firsthand how traditional techniques remain relevant in contemporary settings. The challenges I’ve faced along the way have taught me resilience and adaptability—key traits for both a martial artist and a business owner.
**Interviewer:** Let’s talk about your local recommendations. If someone were to visit your town, what would you suggest they do?
**Jacob Brinnand:** I’ve put together a five-day itinerary that’s a blend of culture, cuisine, and fun! From exploring the Teo Chew Chinese Buddhist Temple, vibrant markets in Mahatma Gandhi District, to enjoying an extensive dim sum in Chinatown, there’s something for everyone. We also have unique culinary experiences, like traditional Filipino dishes and Southeast Asian feasts. It’s a journey that celebrates both flavors and cultures.
**Interviewer:** What a fantastic recommendation! do you have any closing thoughts for aspiring martial artists or entrepreneurs?
**Jacob Brinnand:** Absolutely! Remember, your journey is uniquely yours. Embrace the challenges and envision your goals clearly. Pursue them with determination and patience, and don’t shy away from adapting when obstacles arise. Success often comes when we align our passions with our purpose—always be ready to learn and grow!
*Thank you, Jacob, for sharing your insightful reflections and inspiring journey in martial arts! We are excited to see how your teachings continue to evolve and impact students in the years to come.*