Leaning into Discomfort
Recently, April and I were among 40 attendees at Jesse Itzler’s business mastermind in Connecticut. Jesse is an entrepreneur, endurance athlete, and co-founder of Marquis Jet, known for pushing people to think bigger and live bolder.
I knew this wouldn’t be a typical conference when the pre-event email read: “Arrive in workout clothes. Bring your swimsuit—every day.”
Over two days, we heard incredible speakers share strategies on living with greater intention. We also participated in athletic challenges, took saunas and cold plunges, and even went on a lake excursion. It felt more like summer camp for adults than a business event!
On the second morning, we were given a choice of activities:
Yoga
Stand-up paddleboarding
Circuit workout
A one-mile swim across the lake — and back
My instinct was to pick something safe. But then I remembered: I didn’t come here to be comfortable—I came for an experience. So, despite not swimming regularly in years (and feeling a tinge of dread about the cold water), I chose the lake swim.
Anthony still smiling after his one mile swim at 7am across the very cold 50° lake and back
As we were briefed on breathing techniques and signs of hypothermia, my heart started pounding. I considered bailing and joining the paddleboarders. But I pulled on my goggles and plunged into the lake.
Once I started moving—one arm in front of the other—my confidence grew. Before I knew it, I was on the far side of the lake… then swimming back. When I finally climbed onto the dock, I was exhausted—but smiling. I felt proud. Recharged. Motivated to take on new challenges, both physical and mental.
Swimming across that lake reminded me of something essential:
The things we’re most proud of are rarely easy. As leaders, we must seek out discomfort—not recklessly, but intentionally. It’s where we stretch our capacity and expand what we believe is possible.
And for our teams? Shielding them from discomfort stunts their growth. Real development happens when people lean into challenge—whether they succeed or not. That’s where confidence is built, and the foundation for greater success is laid.
Reflection questions for the week:
When have you grown most through discomfort?
Where can you nudge your team outside their comfort zone?
Keep MIBE-ing!
Anthony Lambatos
Founder, MIBE Hospitality Culture Training
Owner, Footers Catering
P.S. Want to find intentional discomfort? Join us at our MIBE Heart Leadership Workshop in August.
