There are a lot of different skills that we need to learn to function as adults. And these are the skills that can make the difference between succeeding and failing in life. But, when it comes down to the art of self-discipline, there is a straightforward rule: Discipline yourself, and you’ll discipline others and discipline your life.
The Art of Self Discipline is a rule…
Discipline is borrowed from Latin, meaning “to teach or train.” When I think of discipline, I think of rules and orders. It is often associated with punishment for breaking those rules or orders. But I believe that discipline is much more than that. Discipline involves teaching your mind and your body to respond appropriately to situations.
Whether at work or home, being in a leadership position is a blessing and a responsibility. By setting an example and learning self-discipline as a child, you’ll be setting the tone for healthy habits, long-term goals, and life.
Some people are naturally self-disciplined. They have an easy time saying no to an invitation to get together that would make them spend money they haven’t yet earned. They feel content watching their favorite show when they have work to bring in more money with less effort.
Other people are naturally undisciplined. They leave the house without their wallet in the morning. They don’t write a check to pay for the last items in their grocery cart when they don’t have enough money to pay for everything they need.
These people often wonder what they are doing every vacation day and date night. Their easy-going nature has probably prevented them from ever having the success they wanted to attain in different aspects of life.
There are more disciplined people in this world than undisciplined ones, but everyone can be self-disciplined. It might take some people longer to learn self-discipline than others. It does take practice and some determination, but it can be learned.
The Art of Self Discipline is a process…
Set goals and record your progress. Write down the exact dates and how much you have accomplished. When you feel that you are making progress, acknowledge your progress.
For example, if you have challenged yourself to lose weight in a month, record the date and tell others about it, such as a friend or relative. Some people don’t think they can accomplish their goals until they write them down. Then when it comes time to put in the effort to become disciplined, believe that you can and will do it.
Do you need to be more disciplined in certain areas of your life? Do you feel like a bad habit that you can’t break (Junk food, Bad Behaviors,…)? Don’t think that it is impossible to change. Sometimes it can just take more emotion and excitement about an idea.
The Art of Self Discipline is a plan…
Don’t just think about it. Plan for it. Talk about it with a friend or relative. And make a date to get started on a particular subject. By planning, you can show yourself that you are serious about what you are doing, and when you become emotionally involved in your plan, success will be easier to achieve.
It is not always easy to discipline yourself if you lack discipline, but it is always worth it. It will be a relief when you no longer have to struggle with poor habits and bad decisions. And when you master self-discipline, others will notice and benefit from your accomplishments, moving forward toward baby steps and keeping your goal in mind. Discipline requires work, patience, and commitment.
Remember that even the most disciplined person goes through times when they feel as if they are unable to continue striving for their personal goals and future progress.
The Art of Self Discipline is a journey…
And It starts with you, from you, for you…
