Safety Position

Often, in a turn based strategy game like chess, you win by establishing a superior position, maintaining that position and then waiting for your opponent to make a mistake.  If you’ve got your Queen and a rook in their backfield, keep the position until you see an opening. 

As in chess, so in grappling.  In this case, if you establish a top position, keep yourself there until you see an opening.  Just as in chess, because your opponent is in an inferior position, they are more likely to make a mistake.  Be patient but not inactive.

How to wait?  If you’re in your opponent’s guard, use safety position.  Tuck your arms in tight and burrow your head into your partner’s chest.  Don’t leave them any room to choke you or arm bar you.  Don’t get too tight.  If you become immobile, they’ll find a way to throw you off.  Again, be patient and watch while your partner squirms to try and get a submission or a better position.  When they make too big of a motion – make your move – put them in checkmate a submission.