So, I just finished the exercise I’m about to share with you next.

so, I just finished the exercise I’m about to share with you next. it could lead u to believe I’m crazy 🤓

and that’s the first lesson in this story: be careful out there.

why? because the world is full of “experts” handing out advice they don’t follow themselves. They’ll tell you how to run your small business, how to grow, how to thrive—all while doing the exact opposite in their own lives or having no real experience at all.

so today, I’m not offering advice I haven’t lived. I’m sharing something that’s become a daily ritual for me, one that has been transformative.

it all started with a LinkedIn post I read a few years back. The topic? Cold showers.

At the time, it sounded miserable. The thought of voluntarily stepping into freezing water? Hard pass. Especially in the middle of winter here in WI. But the idea stuck with me. So, I decided to try it out—and now, years later, I’m here to tell you, it’s one of the most powerful habits I’ve ever adopted.

Here’s how I do it:

Every morning, I hit the gym, as I’ve done for years. Recently, my wife, Laura, suggested I add the sauna to my routine to boost energy in the mornings. I gave it a try, and after 10–15 minutes of heat, I end my session with a cold shower.

Let me tell you, the cold shower is the game-changer.

That first blast of freezing water hits like a shockwave. It wakes up every nerve, quiets any lingering aches, and completely shifts your mindset. Within seconds, your body stops thinking about the day ahead or the chill in the air and focuses on one thing: the now.

On frigid Wisconsin mornings like today, that water is ice cold. I know those pipes are sitting underground, surrounded by snow. But over time, I’ve built up tolerance. Now, it’s something I genuinely look forward to. Who knows? Maybe one day I’ll take it to the next level with a polar plunge into a frozen lake.

Why do I love it so much? It’s not just the immediate energy boost (though that’s incredible). It’s the mental reset. That cold forces you to control your breathing, calm your mind, and face discomfort head-on. It’s a reminder that you can choose to lean into challenges instead of running from them.

If you’re curious, I encourage you to try it for yourself. Start small—finish your morning shower with 10 seconds of cold water. Work up to longer stretches as you can tolerate it.

And no, it’s not just about building grit. It’s about setting the tone for your day. It’s about choosing to step into something uncomfortable first thing, which makes everything else you face feel just a little more manageable.

I’m just outside the gym now, watching the snow fall, ready to dive into a busy workday. This little ritual, as small as it seems, has become a cornerstone of how I show up—not just for myself but for everyone around me.

So on this cold winter day, I wanted to share a piece of what’s been working for me. Give it a try, and let me know what you think.

Thanks for tuning in. Stay warm, stay bold, and take care!