Show Your Kids They Can Do Hard Things: Lessons From My Cold Plunge

Ever caught yourself wondering if your little ones are really soaking in what you’re teaching them? Like, are they actually listening? This question pops up in my mind more often than not. But recently, something pretty magical happened that gave me a crystal-clear answer.

So, here’s the story: I’ve been challenging myself with cold plunges. Honestly, every single time, I have to psych myself up to dive into that icy bath. But I keep my focus on the rush of energy and pride I feel right after. It’s all about remembering that exhilarating feeling of conquering something tough and all the health benefits. 

My boys are usually hanging out nearby when it’s time for my plunge. And getting into that freezing water? It’s me, chanting louder and louder, “I can do hard things!” That mantra is my lifeline, pulling me through the shivers and shakes. Every splash against the cold, every moment I’m pushing past the chill, I remind myself, “I can do hard things.”

Then, this weekend, a little moment of magic. Kaizen, my oldest son, was playing with his Tonka truck in the front yard. I asked him to move it into the garage. It seemed simple enough. 

Yet, as we got into the car, Kai shared something that stopped me in my tracks. That Tonka truck, it was heavier than it looked, a real push to get it into the garage. But he did it, telling himself, “I can do hard things, I can do hard things, I can do hard things.” Just like he heard from me. In that moment, a little tear came to my eyes. He’s listening, absorbing every word, every action.

It’s a big ol’ reminder: they’re watching us, learning from us, even when we think they’re not. Our actions, our words, they echo in their little minds and hearts.

So, what about you? Have your kids ever mirrored something back at you, something that made you pause and think, “Wow, they really do listen”? I’d love to hear your stories.

Remember, you can do hard things! One cold plunge (or Tonka truck push) at a time. 🙂