The Importance of Self-Discipline
"Self-discipline" is when you tell yourself to do something and you don't talk back." - W. K. Hope
I admire people who have organized lives; their homes and workplaces are neat and organized, and they can actually find their checkbooks, car keys, and eyeglasses. What does it take for a person to possess those characteristics? The answer is self-discipline. Having self-discipline means that we are able to control our feelings and desires. It means that we make a decision, take action, and persevere.
Challenges of Self-Discipline
So if the rewards of self-discipline are so great, why is it so difficult for many of us to be self-disciplined? It may have to do with our inability to delay gratification. It may also be because we only make changes to gain pleasure or avoid pain.
I find that I can be very self-disciplined in some areas and not so in others. For those of you who have been long-time readers of the Motivating Moments, you may recall the difficulties that I had when I began graduate school. I struggled with math and statistical concepts that were totally foreign to me. I tackled the classes and preparation for the exams with the tenacity of a bulldog. I absolutely refused to fail and walk away from the humbling challenges that the classes posed.
It was during those times that I discovered within me the capacity for perseverance and self-discipline. Fortunately, I succeeded and received my MBA months. There are rewards for delaying gratification in other areas.
Strategies for Developing Self-Discipline
What are the areas in your life that are begging for a great plan followed by self-disciplined execution? Get a friend to help you achieve your goals. Ask him or her to require that you report regularly about your progress. Perhaps by being accountable to someone for our actions or inactions, you may find the courage to persevere.
"If we don't discipline ourselves, the world will do it for us." - William Feather
Affirmation: "I will decide, plan, focus, and achieve; and I will not give in or give up!"
By Mary Rau-Foster / Monday Motivating Moment
From India, Madras
"Self-discipline" is when you tell yourself to do something and you don't talk back." - W. K. Hope
I admire people who have organized lives; their homes and workplaces are neat and organized, and they can actually find their checkbooks, car keys, and eyeglasses. What does it take for a person to possess those characteristics? The answer is self-discipline. Having self-discipline means that we are able to control our feelings and desires. It means that we make a decision, take action, and persevere.
Challenges of Self-Discipline
So if the rewards of self-discipline are so great, why is it so difficult for many of us to be self-disciplined? It may have to do with our inability to delay gratification. It may also be because we only make changes to gain pleasure or avoid pain.
I find that I can be very self-disciplined in some areas and not so in others. For those of you who have been long-time readers of the Motivating Moments, you may recall the difficulties that I had when I began graduate school. I struggled with math and statistical concepts that were totally foreign to me. I tackled the classes and preparation for the exams with the tenacity of a bulldog. I absolutely refused to fail and walk away from the humbling challenges that the classes posed.
It was during those times that I discovered within me the capacity for perseverance and self-discipline. Fortunately, I succeeded and received my MBA months. There are rewards for delaying gratification in other areas.
Strategies for Developing Self-Discipline
What are the areas in your life that are begging for a great plan followed by self-disciplined execution? Get a friend to help you achieve your goals. Ask him or her to require that you report regularly about your progress. Perhaps by being accountable to someone for our actions or inactions, you may find the courage to persevere.
"If we don't discipline ourselves, the world will do it for us." - William Feather
Affirmation: "I will decide, plan, focus, and achieve; and I will not give in or give up!"
By Mary Rau-Foster / Monday Motivating Moment
From India, Madras
Self-discipline is a crucial trait that enables individuals to control their feelings and desires, make decisions, take action, and persevere towards achieving their goals. To enhance self-discipline, individuals can follow these practical steps:
1. Identify areas in your life that require self-disciplined execution, such as work tasks, personal projects, or health goals.
2. Develop a detailed plan outlining specific actions needed to achieve your objectives.
3. Stay focused on your goals and avoid distractions that may hinder your progress.
4. Seek support from a friend or mentor who can hold you accountable and provide encouragement along the way.
5. Regularly track your progress and celebrate small victories to stay motivated.
6. Remember that self-discipline is a skill that can be cultivated over time through consistent practice and determination.
By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can strengthen your self-discipline and increase your chances of success in various aspects of your life.
From India, Gurugram
1. Identify areas in your life that require self-disciplined execution, such as work tasks, personal projects, or health goals.
2. Develop a detailed plan outlining specific actions needed to achieve your objectives.
3. Stay focused on your goals and avoid distractions that may hinder your progress.
4. Seek support from a friend or mentor who can hold you accountable and provide encouragement along the way.
5. Regularly track your progress and celebrate small victories to stay motivated.
6. Remember that self-discipline is a skill that can be cultivated over time through consistent practice and determination.
By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can strengthen your self-discipline and increase your chances of success in various aspects of your life.
From India, Gurugram
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