Chapter 1: The Tradition of Cold Plunges

Every New Year's Day, I take a plunge into the icy waters off the coast of Connecticut. It’s a personal ritual that I cherish, marking a unique way to welcome the New Year. While I take this leap solo, I am lucky to have my girlfriend there to capture the moment on video and provide me with a warm bathrobe post-dip.

This tradition began several years ago. Every morning, I start my day with a cold shower right after making my bed. I skip the warm-up phase and jump straight into the cold water. I don’t perform any breathing techniques or follow any specific method; I simply do it. After four years, the experience remains challenging.

Three years back, I wanted to push my limits even further, leading me to try a cold plunge on New Year’s Day. This decision felt like the perfect way to test my boundaries.

The driving force behind this endeavor was the concept of decision-making—an incredibly powerful tool that we all possess. I resolved to confront my fears and stretch beyond my perceived limitations. This marked the beginning of my annual tradition.

The cold plunge isn’t merely about the thirty seconds of immersion; that moment is just a small part of the overall experience. What truly matters is the anticipation and energy leading up to it, all tied to the strength of decision-making.

Every year, as November ends, I reaffirm my commitment to this ritual. December becomes a month of grappling with my fears: What if the air is freezing? What if the water is too cold? What if inclement weather makes travel hazardous?

These initial weeks serve as a practice in mindfulness. I realize that the elements I fear are beyond my control, so I refocus my attention on what I can influence.

As the fourth week approaches, usually just before Christmas, a transformation occurs. The potency of my decision emerges with clarity. The term "decision" originates from Latin, meaning "to cut off." By making a definitive choice, I eliminate all other options, rendering them irrelevant.

Fear gives way to trust; the temperature of the air and water loses significance. I metaphorically "burn my boats," creating a mental space free from obstacles that could deter me. The energy behind this commitment is raw and tangible.

The week between Christmas and New Year's is filled with tranquility, a peace that arises when I commit to something meaningful and take actionable steps towards it.

As we step into the New Year, what aspirations are you considering? What dreams do you have for 2024? Embrace the power of decision, and see where it leads you.

The first video, The Power of Action: How Every Decision Impacts Your Life, delves into how the choices we make shape our realities and drive personal growth.

Chapter 2: The Essence of Decision Making

In December, as I prepare for my plunge, I reflect on the significance of the decisions I make.

The second video, The Power of Decision Making | Tony Robbins, explores how our decision-making processes can lead to profound changes in our lives.

I am excited to share that my new book, "Blank Canvas: How I Reinvented My Life After Prison," is now available on Amazon. I poured my heart into this project with the hope that it will resonate with at least one person who feels as lost as I once did. I would be grateful if you took the time to check it out.