Rebel Talk: The Return

For most of you, this may baffle your minds or not make sense. But remember, we are based in MN, and it gets cold up here. The winter can be grueling, so we find things we love to make the most of it. One of those things for me, is ice fishing.
There’s something about stepping back onto the ice that feels like coming home. The crunch of boots on the frozen lake, the crisp air biting at your cheeks, and the quiet hum of anticipation as you drill the first hole. Ice fishing is more than just a pastime; it’s a retreat, a chance to reconnect with the raw beauty of winter and the steady rhythm of life beneath the surface. For me, it’s also a reminder of the importance of returning to the things that bring us joy—no matter how much time has passed or how reluctant we might feel to put in the effort.
Last year was a bust. The weather didn’t cooperate, and plans to hit the ice fell by the wayside. And yet, this year, two years later, I found myself hesitant. It had been so long, and the work—preparing gear, setting up the ice castle, facing the frigid nights—felt daunting. But something inside whispered, "Go back."
So I did. I hauled the gear, set up camp, and spent a weekend on the frozen expanse. Snow fell softly outside while I stayed warm inside the ice castle, TV on, music playing, and a line in the water. It wasn’t just a fishing trip; it was a full-circle moment, a rediscovery of something that lights a fire in my soul. And as I sat there, surrounded by the stillness and beauty of winter, I couldn’t help but reflect on the parallels to life and the Relentless Rebel way of thinking.
Relentless Rebel isn’t just a brand; it’s a mindset. It’s about living with purpose, embracing challenges, and never settling for mediocrity. Ice fishing embodies all of that. It’s not easy—spending nights on a frozen lake, battling the elements, and waiting patiently for a bite requires grit and determination. But the reward isn’t just in the fish you catch; it’s in the experience itself. It’s in knowing you showed up, put in the work, and found joy in the process.
Life can pull us in a million directions. Business, family, obligations, and the noise of the world can make it easy to forget the things that once made us feel alive. But just like stepping onto the ice, it’s important to take the time to reconnect with what matters. Even if it’s been years, even if the effort feels overwhelming—go back. Find the things that bring you joy, and make them part of your life again. They’re not just hobbies; they’re fuel for the soul.
This weekend on the lake reminded me of why I love ice fishing and why it’s so vital to keep showing up for the things that matter. It’s about more than just catching fish; it’s about creating memories, embracing the grind, and finding peace in the process. It’s a metaphor for living as a Relentless Rebel: tackling life’s challenges head-on and savoring every moment, even when it’s hard.
So, to anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or hesitant to return to what they love—this is your sign. Whether it’s been two years or twenty, it’s never too late to step back onto the ice, pick up the rod, and dive into what makes you come alive. Because at the end of the day, the effort is always worth it, and the joy you’ll find is a reward in itself. That’s the Relentless Rebel way.
Stay Relentless,
Ryan
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