12 lessons we've learnt in 12 years of operating
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As we head into our 12th year at Rebuild Health and Fitness (formerly CrossFit 4178 for the OGs), I’ve been reflecting on what this journey has taught me about people, leadership, and myself.
Here are 12 lessons from 12 years of trying, failing, learning, rebuilding, and growing.
1. Little by little, a little becomes a lot.
Still the truest thing I’ve learned. It’s the small, consistent actions that compound over time — in training, in business, and in life. Big change rarely happens overnight; it’s built through the tiny decisions we make every day.
2. Make your health your first investment, not your last resort.
Twelve years on, this lesson only hits harder. Life doesn’t wait for you to get healthy and when challenges come, your health is the only tool that allows you to handle them. Prioritise it before you’re forced to.
3. Be kind, always.
Behind every person is a story you know nothing about. I’ve seen people walk into the gym fighting invisible battles and still show up for themselves. Kindness costs nothing but it can change someone’s entire day.
4. Growth and comfort can’t coexist.
Every big breakthrough has come after a period of discomfort. Whether it’s starting a business, having a hard conversation, or pushing through a brutal workout growth is always on the other side of “this sucks.”
5. Do the thing.
Action still beats overthinking every single time. There’s never a perfect moment to start, post, launch, or try. Just do the thing, and figure it out as you go. Momentum builds clarity.
6. Learn to say no (so your yes actually means something).
Opportunities are endless, but energy isn’t. Protect your focus, your time, and your peace. Every “no” to distraction is a “yes” to what really matters.
7. Environment is everything.
The right environment changes everything your effort, your belief, your results. Surround yourself with people who want to see you win. That’s been the heartbeat of Rebuild since day one.
8. Celebrate the wins.
We’re wired to downplay success and overanalyse failure. Pause and celebrate. The high-five, the PR, the business milestone they all matter. The small wins are what make the big ones possible.
9. Action creates motivation, not the other way around.
You’ll never “feel ready.” Start moving, even if it’s messy or uncertain. Once you take that first step, motivation catches up.
10. Go together, go far.
Nothing great is built alone. This place has only thrived because of the people in it members, friends, family, and especially @coachJames. We’ve been through it all, and we’re still pushing forward together.
11. Leadership means service.
The longer I do this, the more I realise leadership isn’t about being in charge - it’s about taking responsibility. About helping others win, creating opportunities, and lifting the people around you.
12. Rebuild isn’t just a gym - it’s a mindset.
It’s about rebuilding after setbacks, rediscovering your strength, and constantly striving to become a better version of yourself physically, mentally, emotionally. That’s what we’ve always been about.
Here’s to 12 years of laughs, lifts, and lessons - and to the people who’ve made every single one of them worthwhile.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being part of this journey. The show goes on! We ain't fucking leaving!!
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