What is the blue belt blues in BJJ?

The blue belt blues is so common it has become a well-known term in the BJJ community. Several factors contribute. First, the initial excitement of learning something new has faded and training becomes routine. Second, the blue belt is the belt with the longest average time to the next promotion, typically two to four years to purple. Third, blue belts face higher expectations from both themselves and others. White belts now look up to you, and purple belts test you more rigorously. Fourth, many people started BJJ with the goal of getting a blue belt and now feel directionless. To combat the blue belt blues, set new goals unrelated to belt color. Focus on developing specific techniques, compete, attend seminars, or start helping teach beginners. Vary your training by exploring new positions or switching between gi and no-gi. Remember that this phase passes and the practitioners who push through it often develop the deepest love for the art.