Doing Difficult Things

Hey everyone,

Back in 2021 I started trying out cold showers for the first time. I actually managed to build up a daily streak that I was quite proud of. I’ve recently gotten back into it, and I’ve managed to take one every day so far this year. It’s not only good for your hair, skin, mood, circulation, and immune system, but it also makes you feel pretty elite. This last point is what I want to talk a little more about.

Doing difficult things can be quite daunting since they require extra energy and effort, which can often feel overwhelming. There is a way to make this process easier and more manageable though. By purposefully engaging in challenging activities, we can affirm to ourselves that we are capable of overcoming obstacles, and that the experience is not as bad as we may initially perceive it to be.

When faced with a challenging task, the hardest part is often getting started. We tend to procrastinate or feel overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the endeavour. But by embracing the "flinch" of starting, we can break through this initial barrier and pave the way for progress. One effective way to practice this is by taking cold showers every morning. The act of willingly subjecting ourselves to the discomfort of standing under cold water not only invigorates our senses, but also trains our minds to overcome the initial resistance. By conquering this small discomfort, we can build the mental resilience needed to tackle other difficult tasks in our lives.

When we willingly put ourselves through challenging experiences, we prove to ourselves that we are capable of achieving more than we thought possible. This newfound confidence spills over into other areas of our lives, enabling us to take on bigger challenges with a sense of self-assurance. By consistently pushing our boundaries and embracing difficult tasks, we expand our comfort zone and open doors to personal growth and success. We develop resilience and perseverance, and we become more adaptable. This enables us to navigate through challenges with ease and make progress towards our goals and dreams.

Doing difficult things is an essential part of personal growth and achieving the things we want. By purposefully engaging in challenging tasks, we affirm our capabilities and realise that the initial struggle is often just a flinch. Embracing the discomfort and taking the first step is the hardest part, but once we overcome that barrier, we gain momentum and pave the way for progress. So, the next time you’re faced with a difficult task, take a deep breath, embrace the challenge, and let the water flow. You'll be amazed at what you’re actually capable of.

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Best regards,
Jacq van Jaarsveld