loader from loading.io

Mastering the Minute: How Doing Hard Things Today Shapes Your Future

Do Hard Things Today

Release Date: 02/02/2026

The Power of Showing Up: Unlocking Your Potential show art The Power of Showing Up: Unlocking Your Potential

Do Hard Things Today

 In a world filled with distractions and challenges, the simple act of showing up can be a game-changer. Today's podcast delves into the insights shared in a thought-provoking podcast, exploring what it truly means to show up in both our personal and professional lives.  Showing up is more than just being physically present; it’s about engaging wholeheartedly with the task at hand. Elite individuals have a habit of showing up when the pressure is on. This idea is vividly illustrated by sports legends like Michael Jordan, who famously played through illness and injury, demonstrating...

info_outline
Mastering the Minute: How Doing Hard Things Today Shapes Your Future show art Mastering the Minute: How Doing Hard Things Today Shapes Your Future

Do Hard Things Today

In our fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in worries about the future or regrets about the past. However, the Do Hard Things Today podcast emphasizes the importance of focusing on the present moment. In this blog post, we’ll explore how taking control of our present reality can profoundly impact our lives moving forward. Understanding the Power of Now   The podcast kicks off with a reminder that the present moment is where our lives truly unfold. As Kevin Harrison and Jed Blackwell discuss, every minute that passes quickly turns into an hour, then a day, a week, and...

info_outline
Conquering the Disney Marathon: Insights from the 2026 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend show art Conquering the Disney Marathon: Insights from the 2026 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend

Do Hard Things Today

Welcome back to the Do Hard Things Today podcast, where we delve into the exhilarating experiences of the 2026 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend. Join us as we share personal stories of triumph, challenges, and the magic of running at Disney, providing insights that can inspire every runner, whether you're a novice or a veteran. The 2026 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend was nothing short of magical. Fresh from the excitement, we gathered to discuss our experiences, highlighting the camaraderie among runners and the unique atmosphere that Disney provides. From the enthusiastic crowds...

info_outline
Breaking the Quitters Day Cycle: Realistic Resolutions for 2026 show art Breaking the Quitters Day Cycle: Realistic Resolutions for 2026

Do Hard Things Today

In this episode of the Do Hard Things Today podcast, hosts Kevin Harrison and Jed Blackwell discuss the phenomenon of Quitters Day, which falls on the second Friday of January, marking the day when most people abandon their New Year's resolutions. They emphasize the importance of setting realistic goals and the need to reflect on one's current situation before making resolutions. Kevin shares insights on how to create a framework for success by focusing on manageable, attainable goals over a 90-day period, rather than overwhelming oneself with drastic changes. The conversation highlights the...

info_outline
Winning Seven Seconds at a Time: Lessons from Nick Saban's Coaching Philosophy show art Winning Seven Seconds at a Time: Lessons from Nick Saban's Coaching Philosophy

Do Hard Things Today

In the world of college football, few names resonate as powerfully as Nick Saban. Renowned for his unmatched success with the Alabama Crimson Tide, Saban's coaching philosophy extends beyond the football field, offering invaluable lessons on focus, discipline, and the power of process. Today's podcasts  explores key insights  about Saban's methodology and how we can apply these principles to our everyday lives. The Seven Second Battle   The podcast opens with an intriguing reflection on a pivotal moment in Saban's career—his legendary upset victory over the Ohio State...

info_outline
Conquering the Dopey Challenge: Strategies for First-Time Runners at Disney show art Conquering the Dopey Challenge: Strategies for First-Time Runners at Disney

Do Hard Things Today

The Dopey Challenge at Walt Disney World is no ordinary running event; it’s a thrilling test of endurance and spirit. For first-time participants, the excitement can be overwhelming, but with the right strategies, you can conquer this unique multi-race experience. In this episode, we’ll explore the essential tips and tricks to help you navigate the Dopey Challenge successfully, ensuring you enjoy every moment of the magic. The Dopey Challenge consists of four races over four days: a 5K on Thursday, a 10K on Friday, a half marathon on Saturday, and culminating in a full marathon on Sunday....

info_outline
Conquering the Dopey Challenge: A Roadmap to Success at the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend show art Conquering the Dopey Challenge: A Roadmap to Success at the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend

Do Hard Things Today

Welcome to an exciting journey through the Dopey Challenge at the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend! In this episode, we will explore the ins and outs of this grueling yet rewarding event, designed for those who dare to push their limits. Whether you are a seasoned marathoner or a first-time participant, our insights and strategies will help you navigate this unique challenge with confidence and joy. Understanding the Dopey Challenge:   The Dopey Challenge is an extraordinary test of endurance that takes place during the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, typically in the second week...

info_outline
Five Focus Items For Success show art Five Focus Items For Success

Do Hard Things Today

Today's Do Hard Things Today podcast provides a look at the key characteristics that enable individuals to achieve their goals and reach their full potential. By establishing standards, minimizing distractions, embracing lifelong learning, welcoming adversity, and maintaining consistency,  anyone can cultivate the mindset and habits of successful people. 1. Establishing Standards The key is setting high personal standards and refusing to compromise, even when it is difficult. Jed Blackwell shares his experience as a journalist, where he established strict journalistic standards early in...

info_outline
Faith Drives Troutman's Journey show art Faith Drives Troutman's Journey

Do Hard Things Today

Keith Troutman is a former professional baseball player who spent eight years in the minor leagues after playing collegiately at Spartanburg Methodist College. He joins us on the Do Hard Things Today podcast to talk with Coach Katie and Jed about his journey in baseball - and in his faith.

info_outline
The Dopey Challenge: Breaking Down Some BIG Changes show art The Dopey Challenge: Breaking Down Some BIG Changes

Do Hard Things Today

Are you headed for the Dopey Challenge or the RunDisney Marathon? There are some BIG changes in store! On today's Do Hard Things Today podcast, join Perfect Dopey Kevin Harrison as he takes you through the course, breaking down the changes that might be causing runners some anxiety. What's good, what's bad, and most of all what's new on the course, on today's episode.

info_outline
 
More Episodes

In our fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in worries about the future or regrets about the past. However, the Do Hard Things Today podcast emphasizes the importance of focusing on the present moment. In this blog post, we’ll explore how taking control of our present reality can profoundly impact our lives moving forward.

Understanding the Power of Now  
The podcast kicks off with a reminder that the present moment is where our lives truly unfold. As Kevin Harrison and Jed Blackwell discuss, every minute that passes quickly turns into an hour, then a day, a week, and ultimately, years. They challenge listeners to assess their current situation and ask critical questions about their lives. Are you balanced in the four crucial areas of life: fitness, family, finances, and faith? Identifying where you may be out of balance is the first step toward taking control of your life.

The Dangers of Worrying and Projection  
One of the key points raised is how worrying about the future can paralyze us. When we project negative outcomes in our minds, we create a self-fulfilling prophecy that can hinder our progress. The hosts illustrate this with the metaphor of a movie, where the eerie music hints at impending doom. They emphasize that worrying not only consumes our time but also negatively impacts our health. Jed references a song by Robert Earl Keen, expressing how worrying robs us of precious time. This serves as a poignant reminder to focus on the now rather than the what-ifs that cloud our minds.

Embracing Change and Taking Action  
The podcast urges listeners to recognize that change is possible, but it requires action. Kevin quotes Theo Vonn, stating, "Nothing changes if nothing changes." This mantra drives home the point that to achieve different results in life, we must be willing to make different choices. The hosts encourage listeners to think about what they need to start doing or stop doing immediately. It’s this willingness to embrace change that can lead to personal growth.

Lessons from Exceptional People  
Kevin and Jed share insights into how exceptional individuals achieve greatness through consistent practice of the basics. They highlight stories of renowned athletes who dedicate themselves to mastering foundational skills. Bruce Lee’s famous quote, "A master does not practice 10,000 kicks; a master practices one kick 10,000 times," encapsulates the essence of mastery. The hosts remind us that mastering our lives requires the same dedication and discipline. 

Determining Your Path  
The podcast concludes with an empowering message about the importance of identifying where you are now and where you want to go. Kevin emphasizes that making small choices in the present can lead to significant changes over time. He challenges listeners to take immediate action after the podcast ends, reminding them that every moment counts. By doing hard things today, tomorrow will indeed take care of itself.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways:  
In summary, the Do Hard Things Today podcast provides valuable insights into the power of the present moment. Key takeaways include:
1. Assess your current reality in fitness, family, finances, and faith.
2. Recognize the dangers of worrying and projecting negative outcomes.
3. Embrace change by taking meaningful action.
4. Understand that mastery comes from consistent practice of the basics.
5. Determine your path by identifying your current position and future goals.

By focusing on these principles, you can transform your life and ensure that you are making the most of every minute.