One year ago, Freeport Martial Arts opened its doors and held its first jiu-jitsu classes in Freeport, Illinois. A lot has happened since then.
- We grew to over 20 members, several of whom have been promoted.
- We sponsored the Freeport Middle School wrestling team.
- I received my brown belt from Professor Adem Redžović, a fourth-degree black belt under the ninth-degree red belt Grandmaster Carley Gracie.
- We joined the Gracie Allegiance affiliation, led by Professor Clark Gracie.
- We competed at Grappling Industries Chicago, our first jiu-jitsu tournament as a team.
I took a moment to reflect on what we achieved together over the last 12 months and created a list of insights, lessons, and takeaways.
- Just show up.
- There are good people everywhere.
- Students teach you as much as you teach them.
- Direct, immediate feedback, given with love, is well-received.
- Your best ideas are often not yours.
- Listen to everyone.
- Question everything, especially yourself.
- Teaching is the best way to learn.
- Be ready; you never know who will walk through that door.
- Community is everything.
- You can do more than you think you can do.
- Invest in a sick logo.
- Your business is a reflection of you.
- When you are the leader, all eyes are on you.
- We are all teachers; we are all students.
- Great ideas come from everywhere.
- Metaphors are the best way to convey complex ideas.
- Give a shit.
- Everyone wants to feel heard and understood.
- Your current customers are your best source of new customers.
- Only do what the business can support.
- Believe in your people. They believe in you.
- People want you to succeed.
- Enjoy the journey; the destination is uncertain.