We were lucky to catch up with Jay Zeballos recently and have shared our conversation below.
Jay, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I discovered my passion at a very young age when I enrolled in my first martial arts academy. I was initially drawn to the aesthetics and beauty of the movements and spent years honing my craft. I aspired to become a black belt, a champion and an instructor. Although the martial arts was an endeavor that I was passionate about, life dictated that I was to take a more traditional and stable path. This was the beginning of my career in the commercial printing industry, working alongside my father in the company he established. I worked in the industry for many years, and in spite of its demands, I never stopped training in the martial arts.
Then in late 2008 I entered into one of the most challenging periods of my life. My career went away as my father’s printing company was forced to close. Life essentially hit the reset button. I was starting from zero. I first remembered the fear and uncertainty, but then came the excitement when I realized that I had the ability to dictate what direction I want my life to take. I began to think about what career path I wanted to take. I contemplated going back to school and becoming an EMT. I began exploring options that all involved being of service to others. It was in that moment my purpose became crystal clear – I want to help people. What skills do I possess that would allow me to fulfill my purpose? To me, the answer was obvious, I wanted to become a martial arts instructor.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a full time Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor representing one of the finest martial artists in the world, Jean Jacques Machado. I am one of the head instructors at the Jean Jacques Machado Academy in Woodland Hills, CA. I also have a stable of private clients. In addition, I travel the world teaching and sharing this incredible art.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
I feel that the three essential qualities that an individual needs to achieve success are:
1. Discipline – This is the foundation for success. Having the discipline to do the daily things that bring value to our life is essential.
2. Faith – This does not have to be faith of a religious nature. It simply means to believe in yourself and believe that you will achieve your goals.
3. Action – Nothing works if you don’t take action. Effort ensures results. You have to put in the actual work.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did was feed my passion by enrolling me in my first martial arts academy. I remember my first instructor and the impact he had on my life at the time. Everything he expected of me was a carbon copy of what my parents expected – to work hard and believe I can accomplish anything in life if I put my mind to it.
If my parents had not enrolled me when I asked I honestly don’t know how my life might have ended up. For that I am eternally grateful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jeanjacquesmachado.com/instructors/jay-zeballos/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayzeballos/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jayzeballosbjj
