Our May Book of the Month, Iron Hope, came to life in this month’s MAKE Mastermind.
We had the chance to hear directly from the author—endurance legend James Lawrence—in a powerful conversation with our Founder, Justin Prince.
From mindset to momentum, here are some of our favorite takeaways from the live.
1. “I’m going to try.”
On day 8 of his Conquer 100, James showed up with nothing left—and chose to try. That mindset shift became his mantra. When the pain is high and motivation is low, show up and try.
2. You don’t need to finish it all today—just start.
On day 15, he told his wife Sunny he couldn’t do 85 more Ironmans. She said, “You don’t need to. You just need to show up tomorrow.” That one sentence helped him finish.
3. Discipline is a byproduct.
Discipline isn’t something you’re born with—it’s created through habits, systems, and showing up when it’s hard. Build the structure, and discipline follows.
4. Define your ethos.
When the storm hits, your ethos—the standards and values you’ve already set—guides your decisions. Define what you stand for before the moment demands it.
5. Dream again.
The biggest tragedy isn’t failing—it’s forgetting how to dream. Forgive your past, wake up with gratitude, and write a new future.
6. Every day is day one.
Approach your work, your family, and your life with the presence and appreciation of someone who’s doing it for the first time—and the last.
7. Shift from “I have to” to “I get to.”
One of James’s most powerful stories came from racing with Dayton, a young man with cerebral palsy. “Dayton can’t run. I get to run.” Gratitude reframes everything.
James reminded us that what’s possible doesn’t live in genetics. It lives in grit, purpose, consistency, and the courage to keep going when no one would blame you for quitting.
Missed the live or want to rewatch? Replay is available here.
If you’re reading along with us this month, here’s what James is offering the MAKE community with every purchase of Iron Hope:
- A signed copy of the book from James Lawrence
- Instant access to the first three chapters
- The Conquer 100 documentary
- A powerful, exclusive bonus chapter that was pulled from the final print
- A new 8-module coaching course—a deep dive into the principles of the book, taught by James (delivered after you finish the book)
- Access to the Iron Hope community, open to anyone looking to level up