When I started the 75 Hard challenge, I knew it would be tough—but I underestimated how much it would reshape how I think and lead.
The challenge includes things like two workouts a day, sticking to a diet, drinking a gallon of water, and reading. But the next phase? It required something that stopped me in my tracks: a five-minute cold shower. Every day.
I remember testing it out, thinking I’d try 30 seconds. I barely made it to 15.
I was ready to scale my way up slowly. But during an accountability session, someone said, “Why not just go for the five minutes today? Set a timer. Breathe through it.”
So I did.
I eased the water colder and colder until it was ice cold… and I breathed. I didn’t panic. I stayed. I made it six full minutes.
Here's why this matters:
Every day in business, we’re faced with something uncomfortable.
The call we don’t want to make.
The pitch we’re scared to give.
The leadership decision that feels too big.
But if we breathe through it—if we stop running from the discomfort and start standing in it—we grow.
Mental toughness isn’t about muscling through. It’s about being present, committed, and willing to face your limits so you can expand them.
Since starting this challenge, everything’s shifted. I’m sharper in business, more grounded in my body, and more confident in my mindset. I’m not done yet. But I’ve learned something essential:
👉 You can do hard things.
👉 You can get uncomfortable and come out stronger.
👉 You can lead yourself through anything if you commit and breathe.
What “cold shower” are you avoiding right now? Maybe it’s time to set the timer… and begin.