At CrossFit Ares, "doing hard things" isn’t just a phrase we throw around—it's a core value. But what does it really mean to do hard things? Is it simply enduring physical discomfort, or is there something deeper at play?
Some time ago, we put out a T-shirt with a powerful definition: “To embrace challenges with unwavering courage and relentless determination on your journey to becoming the best version of yourself.” But, as I recently reflected on this, especially after a conversation with a friend about cold plunging, I realized there’s more to it than just facing physical challenges.
Let’s break it down with the example of cold plunging. Yes, plunging into cold water is uncomfortable—it’s cold, it sucks. But is that truly "doing hard things"? In my view, the act of enduring cold isn’t what makes it hard. The real challenge lies in the decision to do it every single day. The hard part is not the cold water itself, but confronting the mental resistance that tries to talk you out of it.
This leads us to a crucial concept: the "mind's mind." This is the part of your brain that seeks comfort, safety, and ease. It’s the voice in your head that says, “You don’t need to do this today,” or “Why put yourself through that discomfort?” It’s excellent at crafting excuses, justifications, and self-limiting beliefs that keep you in your comfort zone.
The true essence of "doing hard things" isn’t in the physical exertion or the challenging task at hand. It’s in facing these internal battles—the excuses, the complaints, the self-doubt—and choosing to push through them. The hardest part is often being alone with your thoughts, where you have to decide whether to listen to that inner voice or override it.
We encounter these moments more often than we realize. They show up in the form of excuses, complaints, and self-limiting beliefs whenever life gets uncomfortable—whether it’s a tough workout, a significant life change, or the daily grind of establishing good habits. The easy way out always presents itself, and it’s tempting to take it. But that’s where the growth happens—when you choose the harder path.
Here’s a challenge for you: become aware of your inner dialogue. Notice when you make an excuse or complain, and do something physical like pinching your wrist to bring your awareness to it. This simple act can help you recognize when your mind’s mind is trying to steer you away from the hard thing you know you need to do.
The more you practice this awareness, the more skilled you become at overcoming these mental hurdles. It’s a trainable skill, and with regular exercise, you’ll find that what you once thought was impossible is well within your reach. You’ll start to approach life’s challenges with confidence, calmness, and an edge that says, “Is that all you’ve got?”
So, embrace the challenge. Do hard things, not because the act itself is difficult, but because confronting your mind’s resistance is where real growth lies. This is more than just a mindset; it’s a lifestyle. And as you continue to practice it, you’ll find yourself becoming the best version of you.
Do Hard Sh*t.
“To embrace challenges with unwavering courage and relentless determination on your journey to becoming the best version of yourself.”
Make it a way of life.
