When your body says “nope”.

I had one of those moments this week where my whole body said nope. I stood in front of the shower—my hand hovering over the faucet, knowing I should turn it to cold. I know the benefits: improved circulation, boosted mood, sharpened alertness, enhanced recovery, and built-up resilience. I’ve done it before.

And yet… I didn’t want to.

I started wondering: what’s actually happening in those moments when we resist something we know is good for us?

Maybe you’ve felt that moment of hesitation too—

• That moment before a workout.
• That pause before committing to a big goal that promises growth.
• That stalling at trying a routine that’s unfamiliar but ultimately beneficial.

We know the payoff is there.

And still, something inside us pulls the brake—holding us back from moving beyond what’s comfortable.

Four months ago, I’d have laughed at the idea of willingly turning my shower cold. And honestly, I almost didn’t share this story because—let’s be real—while I’ve been known to voluntarily step into freezing water, who wants a cold shower?

But this small moment mirrors something universal. That hesitation isn’t about cold water specifically—it’s about that brief pause, that universal moment when our comfort and growth collide.

Whether it’s a cold shower, a challenging workout, or any beneficial habit we resist, that hesitation point isn’t about the specific activity. It’s about recognizing the edge—and realizing that the best version of ourselves often waits just beyond what feels familiar.

Tomorrow, I’ll share some of the research that helped me rethink this kind of resistance—not as failure or laziness, but as the brain’s way of trying to protect us.

In the meantime, I’d love to know:

Would you consider, or do you, turn the shower to cold?

What’s your version of the “cold shower moment”?

When do you feel that hesitation, even when you know something is good for you—whether in your own training or in your daily life?

Just hit reply and share your story. I read every one.

Until next time,
Shannon

P.S. If you know someone who hesitates before taking a leap—whether it’s setting a goal or trying something new—forward this email to them. Together, we can transform hesitation into action and unlock potential that might otherwise remain dormant.