Disengage

This is somewhat counterintuitive to grappling martial arts because there are rules that penalize passivity, but it’s a concept that helps both in competition and self defense. In competition it’s okay to reset, take your two steps back, pull your grips, change your approach. Oftentimes it will significantly annoy or frustrate your opponent. For self defense, look to disengage. You are not in a controlled environment, the quicker you can leave, the less risk you take. Even the most confident grappler shouldn’t stay on the ground in a street fight, the variables are too numerous and that singular focus can be damaging. While you are working on your ability to grapple, also work on your ability to leave.