The morning alarm blares, jarring you awake from restless sleep. Your to-do list runs through your mind before your feet even hit the floor. Emails pile up, responsibilities tug at you from every direction, and the weight of it all feels crushing. You tell yourself to push through, but deep down, exhaustion lingers, and stress has become your constant companion.
If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Modern life moves fast, and between work, family, and personal challenges, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. The good news is that small, intentional actions can have a profound impact on your mental health. These simple yet powerful strategies can help you regain balance, quiet the noise, and nurture your well-being.
Move Your Body, Free Your Mind
You step outside, the crisp air filling your lungs. The tension in your shoulders begins to ease as your feet hit the pavement in a steady rhythm. With each breath, stress loosens its grip.
Exercise is one of the most effective ways to support mental health. Moving your body releases endorphins, the brain’s natural mood boosters, and reduces stress hormones. It does not have to be intense. A brisk walk, a yoga session, or even stretching in the morning can make a difference. Research shows that regular physical activity helps ease anxiety and depression while improving overall mood.
Start small. Take the stairs instead of the elevator, dance to your favorite song, or go for a walk after dinner. The key is consistency, not intensity.
Eat Clean, Think Clear
You take a bite of fresh, ripe berries, their sweetness bursting on your tongue. Alongside them, a handful of nuts provides a satisfying crunch. Your energy feels stable, your mind clear.
What you eat affects how you feel. Highly processed foods, excessive sugar, and caffeine crashes can contribute to mood swings and fatigue. Instead, nourish your brain with whole foods like lean proteins, leafy greens, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Omega-3s from fish and nuts, antioxidants from fruits and vegetables, and fiber-rich foods support brain health and help regulate emotions.
Try making small swaps. Choose water over soda, snack on nuts instead of chips, and add more colorful vegetables to your plate. Your brain will thank you.
The Power of Restorative Sleep
The room is dark, cool, and quiet. You sink into your pillow, your body heavy with relaxation. Your breathing slows, your mind unwinds, and deep sleep carries you into the night.
Quality sleep is essential for mental well-being. Without it, stress becomes harder to manage, emotions feel overwhelming, and focus disappears. Creating a bedtime routine can improve sleep quality. Dim the lights an hour before bed, avoid screens, and establish a calming ritual such as reading or deep breathing.
If sleep eludes you, try maintaining a consistent schedule, keeping your room cool, and limiting caffeine in the afternoon. Prioritizing rest is not a luxury, it is a necessity.
Relax, Breathe, and Be Present
You close your eyes, inhale deeply, and exhale slowly. The tension in your forehead softens. For a moment, the chaos of the world fades, and peace takes its place.
Meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness practices help quiet an overactive mind. Just five minutes of slow, intentional breathing can lower stress levels and increase focus. Meditation does not have to be complicated. Sit in stillness, focus on your breath, or listen to calming sounds.
If meditation is not your style, find other ways to unwind. Take a bath, sip tea, listen to music, or step outside and feel the sun on your skin. Moments of relaxation add up, creating a sense of balance.
Get Organized, Gain Control
The cluttered desk mirrors the clutter in your mind. Papers pile up, emails go unanswered, and stress builds. You take a deep breath, clear a small space, and suddenly, clarity returns.
When life feels overwhelming, organization can create a sense of control. A simple to-do list, a decluttered workspace, or a structured routine can reduce anxiety and make challenges feel more manageable.
Try starting small. Write down three tasks for the day, clean out a drawer, or use a planner to map out your week. Even small acts of organization can bring peace of mind.
Practice Gratitude, Shift Your Perspective
You pause for a moment and think about something good. Maybe it is the warmth of the sun on your skin, a kind text from a friend, or the aroma of morning coffee. A sense of calm washes over you.
Gratitude is a powerful antidote to stress and negativity. When you focus on what is going right, your brain shifts from scarcity to abundance. Keeping a gratitude journal, saying thank you more often, or simply taking time to appreciate small joys can rewire your mindset toward positivity.
Each day, try listing three things you are grateful for. They do not have to be grand. Even the smallest moments of beauty count.
Stay Connected, Build Your Support System
Laughter fills the air as you sit with a friend, sharing stories and memories. For a while, the weight of the world feels lighter. You are reminded that you are not alone.
Social connection is a cornerstone of mental well-being. Whether through family, friends, or a community, strong relationships provide comfort, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. If you feel isolated, reach out. Call a friend, join a group, or simply start a conversation with someone new.
If making friends feels challenging, start by engaging in activities you enjoy. Volunteering, joining a hobby group, or even chatting with a coworker can open the door to meaningful connections.
Small Steps, Big Impact
Life will always have its challenges, but how you care for yourself determines how you handle them. Supporting your mental health does not require drastic changes, just small, consistent actions. Move your body, fuel yourself with nourishing foods, get quality sleep, take moments to breathe, get organized, practice gratitude, and stay connected.
You are not alone in this journey. Every step you take toward self-care is a step toward resilience and well-being. Start today, and give yourself the kindness and care you deserve.
Which of these practices resonates most with you? Share your thoughts in the comments.
In this episode, we dig into the lies we tell ourselves, about being “cool,” about our progress, and ask: are they really lies, or deeper truths in disguise? We kick things off with a hilarious Gen Z slang fail, then dive into how perfectionism blocks momentum in business, creativity, and life. With stories from CEOs, screenwriters, and our own messy projects, we show why sharing unpolished work is essential. From parenting lessons to political rants (with a Star Wars twist), we explore finding peace in chaos, valuing moments over stuff, and staying adaptable. It’s raw, real, and hopefully, really useful.
Join us for a riveting episode exploring the life of Germon “Mama G” Miller-Bey, whose multicultural roots and past history shaped her groundbreaking journey in African martial arts. She challenges myths, exposes historical inaccuracies, and reclaims cultural narratives. Her stories weave martial sciences, personal struggle, and community resilience, from teaching to legal battles around identity. Through wit, wisdom, and grit, Mama G redefines empowerment, urging us to embrace complexity, celebrate creativity, and honor the unfiltered truths that shape who we are and how we fight for joy.
When most people think of stamina, they picture athletes dripping in sweat, soldiers grinding through their last mile, or fighters still swinging when everyone else is out of gas. But the truth is, the real kind of stamina, the kind that builds empires, relationships, careers, and unshakable mindsets, isn’t loud or flashy.
It’s quiet. It’s invisible. It’s deadly.
At Warrior Mindset, we talk a lot about resilience, grit, and mental toughness. But if you’re overlooking stamina, you’re missing the trait that actually keeps you in the fight long after the motivation fades.
What Is Real Stamina?
Stamina isn’t just the ability to keep moving when you’re physically exhausted. It’s the ability to keep showing up when you’re mentally drained, emotionally worn out, and spiritually tested.
It’s the parent who keeps listening, even when they’re exhausted. It’s the business owner who keeps building, even when no one’s buying. It’s you, deciding to do the hard thing, again, after everyone else has checked out.
The people who win are not the most gifted. They’re the ones who keep going when the talented ones get tired.
Why Stamina Is Your Unfair Advantage
Here’s what no one tells you:
The world is full of people who start strong and finish nowhere.
They rely on motivation, adrenaline, or natural ability, and it burns out.
Stamina is what stays after all that fades. While others waste time restarting, you’re still moving forward.
And here’s the kicker:
Every result you want, whether it’s money, mastery, fitness, relationships, peace of mind, is on the other side of sustained effort.
🥋 3 Warrior Takeaways: How To Build Relentless Stamina
1. Train Your Frustration Threshold
Most people don’t quit because they’re weak. They quit because they can’t tolerate the feeling of sucking at something.
Start training that threshold today:
Choose one thing every day that frustrates you, and lean into it.
Learn a skill you’re bad at.
Sit in silence for 10 minutes without distraction.
Finish that boring task you keep avoiding.
You’re not training the skill, you’re training the muscle of not quitting when you’re frustrated.
2. Measure Progress by Reps, Not Results
The world is built to distract you and reward instant gratification. Stamina ignores that.
Here’s how you beat the system:
Track how many reps you put in, not how many results you see.
Show up when you don’t feel like it.
Do the work, even without applause.
Stack days, not dopamine hits.
Reps compound. Results follow.
3. Build “Micro-Stamina” Habits
You don’t build big stamina without practicing small stamina.
If you can’t trust yourself with the small battles, you won’t trust yourself with the big ones.
Start here:
Get up when your alarm goes off, no snoozing.
Finish every workout, even if you’re crawling.
Keep your word, even when it’s inconvenient.
Do what you said you would, especially when you don’t feel like it.
⚔️ Bonus Assignment: Stretch Your Quitting Point
Here’s a mental drill that quietly separates warriors from the crowd:
The next time you want to quit, don’t.
But don’t force yourself to go forever. Just stretch your quit point by 60 seconds.
One more rep.
One more sentence.
One more uncomfortable conversation.
One more minute of discipline.
That extra minute builds the muscle no one else is training: Your ability to keep going when it’s not fun, not exciting, and not convenient.
Stamina Always Outlasts Talent
At Warrior Mindset, we don’t worship overnight success or temporary brilliance. We train for the long game.
Because flashy fades. Stamina wins. And in the end, the last one standing is the one who never stopped showing up.
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Life doesn’t care about your plans—it throws curveballs. In this episode, we dive into the mindset required to turn adversity into strength. From a hilarious text mishap to a personal story involving my 75-year-old mother stranded on the road, we explore how family, grit, and perspective fuel resilience. Drawing insights from “Fight Right” and SEAL training, we break down how real toughness is forged—through chaos, not comfort. With strategies like journaling, kihon-level discipline, and embracing discomfort, we arm you with tools to stay grounded, push forward, and grow stronger through life’s storms. This is the warrior’s path.
What if the key to outlasting the talented isn’t more talent, but something far less flashy, stamina? Stamina is the quiet, often-overlooked edge that keeps you moving forward when the spotlight fades. It’s the parent who stays engaged after a long day, the entrepreneur pushing through setbacks, and anyone willing to face the daily grind head-on. In this episode, we break down the real meaning of stamina and how to train it, by building grit, focusing on consistency over results, and developing micro-habits. Learn to cultivate lasting resilience and discover why stamina outlasts hype, motivation, and even raw talent.
This episode explores the path of self-improvement through intentional daily habits, drawing on insights from figures like Mark Manson and Arnold Schwarzenegger. We reflect on Manson’s “You’re Not Special,” challenge self-gratification culture, and promote meaningful growth. From Arnold’s Pump Club, we highlight conserving energy for what truly matters. We dive into visualization techniques inspired by the Blue Angels, discuss crafting personalized morning routines, and the power of mental rehearsal. We emphasize disconnecting from digital noise through physical activities and explore breathwork, mindset, and resilience with insights from Coach Divine, martial arts, and thought leaders like Stephen Thompson and Jason Wilson.
In this episode, we explore how bold, unconventional challenges can fuel personal and professional transformation. Our guest, Jada, a former HR consultant turned CEO coach, shares how firewalking, glass walking, and arrow breaking taught her to overcome fear and build lasting resilience. We also discuss how addressing people-related business challenges, authentic networking, and embracing discomfort can unlock real growth. From gender dynamics in leadership to the power of like-minded communities, this conversation will inspire you to push boundaries, rethink success, and approach life with a mindset of continuous learning and adventure.
There’s a moment in every fighter’s journey when they step into the ring alone. The crowd fades. The coach’s voice is a distant echo. The opponent in front of them is real, but the real battle? It’s within.
That moment, the split second before the first strike, is where accountability lives. No one can throw your punches for you. No one can force you to move your feet. It’s you, and only you.
But here’s the truth: No warrior walks the path alone. Whether you’re a martial artist, an entrepreneur, or someone striving for personal growth, accountability is the unseen force that keeps you sharp, disciplined, and evolving.
Self-Management: Becoming Your Own Coach
Self-accountability starts in the dark, when no one is watching, when the comfort of excuses calls your name, when the easy road tempts you to veer off course.
So how do you stay on track?
Set Clear Expectations – Like a kata in Karate, your goals need structure. Instead of vague aspirations, define your path with precision. “I want to train harder” becomes “I will hit the dojo five days a week and log my progress.”
Track Your Progress – Whether it’s a notebook, an app, or a whiteboard in your gym, writing things down makes you accountable to yourself. When you see the numbers, the reps, and the effort laid out, excuses lose their power.
Embrace Discipline Over Motivation – Motivation is fleeting. Discipline is built. The best warriors don’t wait to feel inspired—they train because it’s who they are. They lace up their gloves whether they feel like it or not.
Face the Hard Truths – Self-awareness is brutal but necessary. If you skip a training session, own it. If you make excuses, call yourself out. Growth comes from honesty.
But even the strongest self-discipline has limits. That’s why every warrior needs a coach.
Who Coaches You? The Role of a Mentor in Accountability
Even the best fighters have a coach in their corner. But a coach isn’t just someone who yells at you to train harder, they see what you can’t, push you beyond your limits, and call you out when you’re slacking.
A great coach:
Challenges you without breaking you.
Sees your blind spots and forces you to confront them.
Holds you accountable when your mind starts making excuses.
Offers wisdom gained through experience.
Your coach might be a martial arts instructor, a business mentor, or even a mindset coach. The key? Find someone who demands your best, not someone who makes you comfortable.
Finding a Coach or an Accountability Partner
Not everyone needs a formal coach. Sometimes, an accountability partner, a training partner, a friend, or a mastermind group—can serve the same purpose.
Here’s how to find the right person:
Look for someone who has what you want – If they’ve already achieved what you’re chasing, they understand the path.
Seek brutal honesty – A good accountability partner doesn’t just encourage you; they call you out when you slip.
Set clear expectations – “Let’s hold each other accountable” is vague. “We check in every Friday and review progress” is specific.
The Warrior’s Code of Accountability
Accountability isn’t about guilt or punishment. It’s about discipline, growth, and commitment to the path. A warrior doesn’t make excuses, they find solutions. A warrior doesn’t hide from failure, they learn from it.
So, ask yourself:
How well do you self-manage?
Who holds you accountable?
What’s your next step in finding a coach or partner?
Because at the end of the day, no one will fight your battles for you. But the right accountability, whether from within or from a coach, will make sure you never step into the ring unprepared.
Step into the shifting world of modern masculinity as we unravel the image transformations of tech icons—beginning with Mark Zuckerberg. Once the hoodie-clad coder, Zuckerberg’s new fighter-physique and stoic stare tell a different story. But why the change? We peel back the layers of this calculated rebranding and explore how media crafts masculine ideals—from the “tech bro” archetype to martial arts influencers like Joe Rogan.
Through vivid stories, personal reflection, and pop culture references, Shekeese and I examine the spectrum of masculinity: traditional, toxic, and healthy. What messages are we absorbing? What should we pass on?
This episode invites you to question the media mirror, seek authenticity, and redefine strength—not as performance, but as purpose. Tune in for a deeper look.
What does it take to turn a felony conviction into a story of triumph? In this powerful episode, Derek Tsuboi opens up about his transformation—from legal struggles and hidden truths to Spartan race glory and entrepreneurial success. With raw honesty, he shares how embracing authenticity, enduring hardship, and redefining failure led him to reclaim his life. Don’t miss this exclusive conversation about resilience, redemption, and the power of owning your story.
Imagine carrying a brick every single day, not just any brick, but one with the name of the man who took everything from you. Georges St-Pierre did exactly that after the biggest loss of his career. But why? And what happened when he finally put it down?
The Brick That Built a Champion: How Georges St-Pierre Used Defeat as Fuel
The weight of a single brick is nothing compared to the weight of failure. But for Georges St-Pierre, a brick was more than just a brick. It was a constant, tangible reminder of the night everything fell apart.
The Night That Shook the MMA World
April 7, 2007. UFC 69.
The crowd roared as the cage door locked behind Georges St-Pierre and Matt Serra. Everyone expected the champion to dominate. Serra, the scrappy underdog from Long Island, had fought his way through The Ultimate Fighter reality show for a shot at the welterweight belt. On paper, he had no business winning.
But fights aren’t won on paper.
Just over three minutes into the first round, Serra rocked St-Pierre with an overhand right. The champ wobbled. The next few seconds were a blur, punches landing, balance lost, survival instincts failing. Before long, the referee was pulling Serra away, and St-Pierre was left staring up at the lights.
He had been dethroned. Humiliated.
The Weight of a Brick
Most fighters bury their losses. They push the pain aside, pretend it never happened, and move on. But St-Pierre? He carried his.
Literally.
At some point after the loss, he picked up a brick and wrote “Matt Serra” on it. That brick became part of his daily life. He took it with him to training. It sat in his gym, a silent witness to every grueling workout, every bead of sweat, every moment of self-doubt.
Why?
Because he refused to forget. He refused to let that moment of defeat become just another bad memory. Instead, he used it. Every time he saw the brick, he was reminded of what he had lost. But more importantly, he was reminded of what he was working to reclaim.
The weight of the brick wasn’t physical. It was psychological. It was emotional. And it was exactly what he needed.
The Road to Redemption
For a year, St-Pierre trained like a man possessed. Every takedown drilled, every punch thrown, every round sparred, it all led to one inevitable moment.
April 19, 2008. UFC 83. The rematch.
This time, there was no mistake. St-Pierre dominated Serra from the opening bell. He took him down at will, controlled the fight, and, in the second round, finished him with brutal knees to the body.
As the referee waved it off, the weight lifted. Not just the pressure of the fight, but something else. Something that had been with him every single day.
The brick.
He didn’t need it anymore.
The Lesson in Mental Toughness
St-Pierre’s journey from humiliation to redemption wasn’t just about skill. It was about mindset. Most people run from failure. He carried his. He turned it into fuel.
The brick was never about Matt Serra. It was about himself, his own doubts, his own fears, his own drive to be better.
When the time came, he didn’t just put the brick down. He crushed it.
And that’s what separates champions from everyone else.
Want to push yourself past failure like GSP? Next time you face a setback, don’t ignore it. Carry it. Let it remind you why you need to fight harder. Then, when the time is right, let it go.
But only after you’ve turned it into victory.
5 Key Takeaways from Georges St-Pierre’s Brick Story
Failure Can Be Fuel – Instead of running from defeat, GSP used it as daily motivation by carrying a brick with Matt Serra’s name on it.
Turn Pain Into Purpose – The brick symbolized his loss, but also his drive to reclaim his title, pushing him to train harder every day.
Mindset Shapes Champions – GSP’s comeback wasn’t just physical; it was mental. His ability to embrace failure and use it constructively set him apart.
Symbolic Reminders Work – Having a tangible object tied to a goal or setback can be a powerful psychological tool to stay focused and disciplined.
Let It Go After Growth – Once GSP avenged his loss, he put the brick down, showing that after learning and improving, you must move forward without carrying past burdens.
Unlock the secrets of honor, strength, and wisdom through Miyamoto Musashi’s 21 Principles for Life, a timeless guide to resilience and personal growth. We explore how his teachings transcend materialism and emotional dependence, drawing parallels with modern warriors like Jocko Willink. By embracing extreme ownership, discipline, and self-reliance, we uncover strategies for decisive action and acceptance of reality. Drawing from Stoic philosophy and Navy SEAL principles, we highlight the power of detachment, integrity, and responsibility. Through the samurai ethos and military discipline, we emphasize the importance of a guiding philosophy that defines true strength and the warrior’s way of life.
We are constantly pushed toward comfort and convenience, so much so, the idea of embracing stress may sound counterintuitive. Yet, the principle of hormesis, the biological phenomenon where small, controlled doses of stress trigger powerful adaptations, suggests that voluntary hardship is the key to long-term resilience.
Much like a vaccine exposes the body to a weakened version of a virus to build immunity, hormetic stressors prepare the mind and body to handle greater challenges in the future. Whether it’s physical exertion, environmental extremes, or mental pressure, exposing yourself to controlled stress strengthens your capacity to endure and thrive.
The Science Behind Hormesis
At the cellular level, hormesis activates stress-response pathways that drive adaptation and resilience. When the body encounters mild, controlled stress, it responds by:
Producing antioxidants and protective proteins to combat cellular damage.
Strengthening the nervous system, making it more efficient at handling future stress.
Enhancing mitochondrial efficiency, improving overall energy production.
Increasing neuroplasticity, which sharpens mental clarity, focus, and emotional resilience.
In essence, hormesis teaches the body and mind that discomfort is not a signal to quit, it is a catalyst for growth and toughness.
Examples of Hormesis in Action
1. Physical Stress: Strength Training & Endurance Work
Lifting weights creates micro-tears in muscle fibers, which the body repairs to make them stronger.
Endurance athletes improve cardiovascular efficiency by repeatedly pushing through controlled fatigue.
2. Cold Exposure: Ice Baths & Cold Showers
Activates brown fat, which improves metabolism and heat regulation.
Increases norepinephrine production, enhancing focus and reducing inflammation.
Teaches the mind to stay calm under extreme discomfort.
3. Heat Exposure: Saunas & Heat Training
Boosts heat shock proteins, protecting cells and accelerating recovery.
Enhances cardiovascular function by improving blood circulation and oxygen transport.
Trains mental resilience by forcing the body to adapt to extreme heat.
4. Fasting & Nutritional Stress
Activates autophagy, a cellular process that clears out damaged cells and regenerates new ones.
Forces the brain to rely on ketones for energy, improving cognitive function and mental clarity.
Develops self-control and discipline over food cravings and impulsive eating.
5. Oxygen Deprivation: High-Intensity Training & Breath Work
Training at high altitudes or practicing breath-hold exercises forces the body to increase red blood cell production, improving endurance.
Fighters and athletes use oxygen-deprivation training to condition their lungs for extreme exertion.
6. Psychological & Emotional Stress: Controlled Exposure to Fear & Pressure
Repeated exposure to high-stakes situations (public speaking, sparring, competition) rewires the brain to stay calm under pressure.
Trains the amygdala (the brain’s fear center) to reduce overreaction to stress.
Builds emotional resilience, making future challenges seem less overwhelming.
Why Most People Avoid Hormesis – That’s a Mistake
Modern life offers unparalleled comfort, climate control, unlimited food access, and digital distractions make it easy to avoid discomfort. But this lack of challenge weakens our ability to handle real adversity.
Without controlled stress, the body and mind become fragile. Those who embrace hormetic stressors gain a significant advantage:
✅ They endure pain, fatigue, and adversity better than the average person. ✅ They recover faster from injuries, failures, and emotional setbacks. ✅ They are mentally sharper, more disciplined, and harder to break.
How to Apply Hormesis to Your Life
Start small and consistent, too much stress at once leads to burnout. Here’s how to integrate hormetic stressors into daily life:
🔥 Take cold showers or ice baths 2-3 times a week. 🔥 Practice fasting (12-16 hours) once or twice a week. 🔥 Train in heat or cold instead of avoiding discomfort. 🔥 Lift heavier weights or add short bursts of high-intensity training. 🔥 Expose yourself to psychological stress (public speaking, sparring, high-pressure decision-making).
Grit is Built Through Controlled Stress
Hormesis teaches a valuable truth: discomfort is a tool, not an enemy. By choosing voluntary hardship, you train your body and mind to handle life’s unavoidable difficulties with strength, confidence, and discipline. The strongest warriors aren’t the ones who avoid suffering—they’re the ones who embrace it, adapt, and come out tougher than before.
The question is: How much discomfort are you willing to embrace today to become stronger tomorrow?
As I approached my milestone birthday (50), I found myself reflecting on what it truly means to live a well-lived life. Would I trade spontaneity for meticulously curated longevity? This episode dives into the balance between living fully and striving for longevity, drawing insights from The Wealth That Money Can’t Buy by Robin Sharma and Outlive by Peter Attia. We explore themes of health, aging, and personal growth, sharing personal stories of knee troubles and family loss while emphasizing the importance of emotional well-being. Discussing healthspan versus lifespan, we highlight small, sustainable habits from How Not to Age by Michael Greger that can lead to profound results. Writing, from journaling to blogging, emerges as a powerful tool for self-reflection and personal growth. We also touch on the importance of mindful morning routines and creative ways to capture spontaneous ideas. In a world of societal divides, we emphasize unity, understanding, and the ongoing journey of balancing love and frustration with the world around us.
We’ve all been there. You wake up, and your body feels sluggish. Your mind whispers excuses: “I’ll train tomorrow,”“I’m too tired,”“I don’t have time.” Before you know it, you’ve skipped another session.
The difference between high performers and everyone else isn’t that they always feel motivated; it’s that they train even when they don’t want to. This is where Jocko Willink’s “Discipline = Freedom” philosophy comes in:
“Don’t expect to be motivated every day to get out there and make things happen. You won’t be. Don’t count on motivation. Count on discipline.” — Jocko Willink
Motivation is temporary: it’s an emotional state that fluctuates. Discipline, on the other hand, is a system. It removes the need for motivation because you train whether you feel like it or not. And that’s what creates freedom, the freedom to perform at a high level, to reach your goals, and to control your own destiny.
Why We Struggle to Train When We Don’t Feel Like It
Before we fix the problem, we need to understand why laziness or hesitation happens in the first place.
A. Mental Barriers That Kill Discipline:
❌ Instant Gratification Wins – Your brain prioritizes short-term comfort (Netflix, scrolling, staying in bed) over long-term benefits. ❌ Overthinking Kills Action – You spend too much time thinking about training instead of just doing it. ❌ Perfectionism Leads to Paralysis – You tell yourself, “If I can’t train perfectly, I shouldn’t train at all.” ❌ Emotions Dictate Action – You wait until you feel motivated instead of training out of habit.
The Jocko Willink Approach: Discipline Over Feelings
Jocko’s core belief is simple: You don’t negotiate with your feelings. You do what needs to be done—no matter what.
This means:
You train because it’s who you are, not because you feel like it.
You don’t rely on motivation, you rely on habit and structure.
You keep promises to yourself, no matter how tired or unmotivated you feel.
Discipline gives you freedom from excuses, freedom from regret, and freedom to achieve your potential. When you commit to discipline, laziness loses its grip on you.
Strategies to Train When You Don’t Feel Like It
Lower the Activation Energy: Make It Easy to Start
The hardest part is often just getting started. Instead of thinking, “I have to do an intense 2-hour session,” break it down: ✅ “I’ll just warm up for 5 minutes.” (Momentum builds action.) ✅ “I’ll only do one set.” (You’ll likely keep going once you start.) ✅ “I’ll put my gi or gym clothes on and step outside.” (Dressing for action makes it easier to commit.)
Create a Non-Negotiable Routine
Jocko wakes up at 4:30 AM every single day. Why? Because routine eliminates decision fatigue. If you build a structured, non-negotiable training schedule, it removes the need to think about if you should train, you just do it. ✅ Train at the same time every day. ✅ Make it a priority, not an option. ✅ Treat it like brushing your teeth, it just happens, no excuses.
The 2-Minute Rule: Just Show Up
If you’re feeling lazy, tell yourself: “I’ll train for just 2 minutes.” Once you start, your brain switches gears, and you’ll almost always keep going. Action creates motivation, not the other way around.
Use the “Future You” Mindset
Ask yourself: “Will I feel better or worse after skipping this session?” “If I skip today, will it be easier or harder to train tomorrow?” “What would a disciplined version of myself do right now?”
Train for your future self, not your present emotions.
Accountability & Non-Negotiable Standards
✅ Train with a partner – It’s harder to skip when someone else expects you to show up. ✅ Announce your commitment – Tell a friend, social media, or a coach so you’re held accountable. ✅ Develop warrior standards – Make training part of your identity. Instead of saying, “I should train,” say, “I don’t miss training.”
Remove Comfort as an Option
Jocko’s mindset:Comfort is the enemy. If you always allow yourself the easy way out, you’ll take it.
Set your alarm far from your bed so you have to get up.
Keep your training gear in plain sight as a visual trigger.
Remove distractions before they become an excuse.
Why This Leads to Freedom
Discipline creates freedom because: ✅ You don’t waste time debating whether to train. You just do it. ✅ You’re free from the guilt and regret of skipping sessions. ✅ You’re free from the limitations of your emotions controlling you. ✅ You build a body and mind that can handle anything life throws at you.
Once you make training a non-negotiable, you unlock the freedom to be stronger, tougher, and more in control of your life.
Who Do You Want to Be?
Every time you choose to train when you don’t feel like it, you’re proving to yourself that you’re a warrior, not a quitter. The hard days are what separate the disciplined from the weak.
The question isn’t whether you feel like training. The question is: Do you want to be weak, or do you want to be strong?
Unlock the power of Uketamo and transform your approach to life and martial arts. This episode explores the intersection of ancient Japanese philosophy and modern resilience-building techniques, revealing how radical acceptance can turn pain and failure into growth. Inspired by Yamabushi monks and the stoic mindset of “embracing the suck” used by Navy SEALs, we discuss how embracing discomfort with gratitude enhances adaptability and strength. Whether you’re a martial artist, coach, or navigating life’s challenges, Uketamo offers a path to composure and learning from setbacks. Share your thoughts, subscribe, and help us build a community rooted in strength and discipline.
Can the ancient art of ninjutsu unlock modern-day success? Let’s explore how this stealthy discipline offers powerful lessons in mindfulness, adaptability, and resilience. Inspired by Stephen K. Hayes’s Ninjutsu: The Art of the Invisible Warrior, we uncover how its timeless principles transcend combat, shaping leadership, strategy, and personal growth. Through historical insights, modern applications, and techniques like meditation and visualization, we reveal how embracing the ninja mindset fosters patience, foresight, and balance in an unpredictable world. Tune in to discover how ninjutsu’s wisdom can guide you toward mental fortitude, integrity, and true happiness.
In this episode we dive into the power of stealth biometrics—how tracking key health metrics, inspired by the Whoop strap, can transform both personal wellness and business strategy. A wake-up call from alarming blood work sparked a journey of self-optimization—leveraging sleep tracking, stress management, mindful eating, and intermittent fasting to build resilience and peak performance.
But this isn’t just about health. The same principles that drive physical improvement—data, discipline, and continuous progress—are the foundation of business success. We break down how tracking and measuring key metrics can help you build financial safety nets, create sustainable growth, and cultivate a mindset built for long-term success.
Tune in to discover how embracing data-driven decisions and consistent refinement can elevate both your body and your business. It’s time to take control, set meaningful goals, and thrive.
After experiencing the transformative power of martial arts firsthand, I couldn’t wait to share the film “Fighter in the Wind” with you. The movie portrays how Mas Oyama’s indomitable spirit and quest for strength can inspire us all. We dissect how the movie reflects his resilience amidst discrimination and personal battles, a narrative that speaks to the warrior ethos of perseverance and self-improvement. The blend of historical accuracy and mythological flair typical of martial arts cinema adds a really fun layer to Oyama’s legacyr.
Beyond the cinematic portrayal, let’s delve into the essence of building a warrior mindset. By drawing wisdom from iconic figures like Rocky and David Goggins, discussing concepts like shugyo—intense training that shapes mental and spiritual fortitude. It’s about finding that delicate balance: pushing your limits without veering into excessive performances. Resilience and composure in adversity aren’t just innate talents but skills to be trained and honed. Embrace the path of personal growth, whether through martial arts or everyday challenges, and unlock the grace and determination to conquer life’s obstacles. Join us on a journey to harness the true spirit of a warrior, becoming a better version of yourself with each passing day.
Unlock the secrets of mastering your mindset in this episode, where ancient wisdom meets modern challenges. We explore how traditional martial arts and stoic philosophy, with insights from masters like Masakai Ikemiyagi and Ryan Holiday, foster resilience and growth. Reflecting on Seneca’s teachings, we highlight the value of time, relationships, and intentional communication while sharing strategies to overcome fear and procrastination. Through personal anecdotes and listener stories, we discuss overcoming addiction, embracing spirituality, and building meaningful connections. With a critical look at online life advice, this episode offers reflection, practical tips, and inspiration to fuel your journey toward fulfillment.
What if leadership was more about influence than authority? Discover how embracing a team mindset can transform your approach to management in our latest episode of the Warrior Mindset Podcast. We unravel the subtle art of leading with persuasion, shifting from a traditional hierarchy to a culture of collaboration and shared goals. Hear personal stories about integrating new team members and inspiring a team even when outcomes are uncertain. Leadership isn’t just about steering the ship; it’s about inspiring the crew to sail with you.
The nuances of communication, especially in our increasingly digital world, take center stage as we discuss overcoming the inherent challenges of text-based interactions. Miscommunication can be a silent saboteur in any organization, but with the right strategies, it can be mitigated. Learn how setting clear intentions can create alignment and clarity, transforming meetings from chaotic to cohesive. We’ll share insights on how simple adjustments, like asking the right questions, can lead to profound revelations and foster deeper connections among team members.
Stories are powerful tools, and we explore their impact in leadership and beyond. Through relatable anecdotes, we highlight the importance of storytelling in building influence and strengthening relationships. Discover how small wins in marketing and sales can lead to significant successes, and why patience and persistence are your allies on the path to personal and professional growth. Whether it’s drawing lessons from military leadership or sharing personal experiences of failure, this episode is packed with practical advice to enhance your leadership journey through understanding, preparation, and shared values.
In this chapter, we will explore the benefits of mindfulness and meditation, and how they relate to mental toughness. We will discuss the impact of stress on mental health, and provide practical tools and techniques for practicing mindfulness and meditation.
Mindfulness and meditation are powerful tools for developing mental toughness, managing stress, and improving overall well-being. Mindfulness involves being present and fully engaged in the present moment, while meditation involves focusing one’s attention and clearing the mind. In this chapter, we will explore the benefits of mindfulness and meditation, and how they relate to mental toughness. We will discuss the impact of stress on mental health and provide practical tools and techniques for practicing mindfulness and meditation.
Stress can significantly impact an individual’s mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Mindfulness and meditation can help manage stress and promote better mental and emotional well-being.
Here are some practical tips for practicing mindfulness and meditation:
Set aside time for practice: Schedule regular time for mindfulness and meditation practice, such as first thing in the morning or before bed.
Find a quiet, comfortable space: Choose a quiet, comfortable space where you can practice mindfulness and meditation without distraction.
Focus on your breath: Focus on your breath and pay attention to the sensations in your body.
Notice your thoughts: Notice your thoughts without judgment and let them pass without attachment.
Use guided meditations: Use guided meditations, such as apps or videos, to help you get started and stay focused.
By implementing these tips and techniques, individuals can practice mindfulness and meditation and improve mental and emotional well-being. With intentional effort and practice, anyone can learn to practice mindfulness and meditation and develop the skills needed to manage stress and promote mental toughness.
Mindfulness and meditation are powerful tools for developing mental toughness, managing stress, and improving overall well-being. By setting aside time for practice, finding a quiet space, focusing on the breath, noticing thoughts without judgment, and using guided meditations, individuals can practice mindfulness and meditation and promote better mental and emotional health.
Has CrossFit evolved from a brand into a genre redefining fitness? On this Debrief Episode of the Podcast, we explore this transformation via a post from Stu Stuart Brower of WTF Gym Talk, discussing the rise of non-branded functional fitness gyms, the challenges of quality coaching, and the value of experience over certifications. We also tackle fitness trends like Ozempic’s controversial use for weight loss and F45’s move to integrate weight loss drugs, raising questions about industry ethics and sustainability. Finally, we dive into combat dynamics, hero worship, and personal encounters with icons, encouraging reflection on lessons from public figures.
Join Greg and I as we discuss the intertwined journey of life, business, and personal growth. We share lessons learned about taking responsibility for our choices, focusing on what we can control, and maintaining emotional balance—especially in challenging client interactions. Reflecting on early setbacks, we discuss the value of time as a finite resource, the importance of aligning work with personal values, and setting boundaries around less fulfilling commitments. Through stories of resilience, consistency, and integrity, we highlight the parallels between martial arts, entrepreneurship, and life, encouraging growth through presence, reflection, and intentional action.
Heather’s inspiring journey from a political newcomer to a 2x re-elected State House representative takes center stage in our latest episode. Hear firsthand how Heather’s perseverance and integrity have shaped her political career, offering valuable lessons on maintaining authenticity in a world often dominated by negativity. You’ll come away with insights into Heather’s unique campaign strategies that focused on accomplishments and future plans, proving that staying true to one’s principles can indeed pave the way to electoral success.
Our conversation also navigates the complex waters of maintaining genuine relationships in the digital age and the critical role of persistence. In a political landscape where perceptions can be as fleeting as a tweet, Heather shares her experience of building a reliable support system that stands through trials and triumphs alike. We tackle the pressing issues of public perception and the ever-present challenge of communicating intricate topics succinctly, reinforcing the idea that resilience often stems from embracing failures as opportunities to grow.
Reflecting on personal growth and resilience, Heather opens up about the transformative power of martial arts in her decision-making process, acting as a guide for justice and integrity. The discussion extends beyond politics, touching on the universal truths of overcoming setbacks and the strength found in sincere apologies. This episode promises to inspire with stories of personal evolution, highlighting the importance of self-reflection and the courage to navigate life’s complexities with honesty and humility.
Join us for an exhilarating conversation with Dan Jackson, fresh off his National Championship Grid win. We celebrate his team’s groundbreaking success as the first outside Florida to win since the league went national, reflecting on their five-year journey, the challenges they overcame, and the promising future of the sport of Grid. We also spotlight his remarkable comeback, insights from preseason camps, and the intense mental and physical demands of Grid and combat sports. Finally, we delve into CrossFit’s evolving landscape, athlete coaching dynamics, and the expanding culture of competitive fitness.
Carl Smith and I discuss transitioning from a busy digital agency to a remote work setup brought lessons in autonomy, collaboration, and balance. In this episode, we share our journey of working with industry giants like Facebook and Epic Games, navigating the risks of overcommitting, and fostering diverse client relationships and creative spaces. We also explore personal growth through fear, martial arts, stoicism, and how practices like meditation, running, and community support shaped our leadership, especially during the pandemic. With stories of friendship, gratitude, and resilience, we reflect on the moments and mementos that symbolize growth and enduring connections.
Are you ready to redefine fitness and well-being as you age? In this episode, Shakeese and I dive into staying strong and mobile into our 40s and beyond. From David Goggins-inspired stories to insights on adapting workouts for aging athletes, we discuss the evolving importance of mobility, nutrition, and tailored routines. Mental resilience is equally vital, and we share strategies to overcome self-doubt and build confidence. Listen in as we explore discipline, mindful practices, and the wisdom of learning from others, leaving you with actionable steps for lifelong physical and mental growth.
Martial arts teacher Dan Bernardo shares his inspiring journey from assistant instructor to founder of his own school. He discusses the profound responsibilities of teaching, the balance between introspection and dynamic practice, and the cultural evolution of martial arts. Dan’s holistic approach emphasizes personal growth, community building, and ethical awareness, making this episode a must-listen for anyone curious about the transformative power of martial arts in life and society.
