The Simple Truth About Discipline In 60 Seconds

What do personal growth, positive change, and accomplishment all have in common? Well, many things, but one thing is for certain, they all require discipline. The only problem is that so many of us have a negative association with the word discipline.

For some people, the word discipline conjures up images of a military-style boot camp. Other people think of discipline as punishment, reminiscent of their childhood or they see it as some type of deprivation that requires some extraordinary levels of stamina or endurance.

All of these may be true to a small degree or under specific circumstances but the truth is that discipline is usually a simple choice.

It can be that simple!

A big change happens when we start to see discipline, not as something negative or even burdensome but rather as the act of choosing. For me, it’s a choice between that which I want now and that which I want most. In that context, it’s pretty simple. I have to ask myself and be honest about what it is I want and what it is I’m willing to do to get it.

This realization can be so powerful when I learn to practice it. When I find myself in a position where I need to exercise discipline I can remind myself, at a conscious level, of that which I want most and even why I want it in order to get the strength I need to exercise discipline.

Making it about a choice gives me the freedom to choose to give up what I want now for what I want ultimately. This doesn’t mean I always succeed at being disciplined, but it does help me stay motivated and helps me stay focused over the long term.

Big results come from small changes over the long term. Small changes require small actions and taking action is all about the discipline to engage at some level in the present moment… Today.

Today, I hope you are making good progress towards all your goals, whatever they may be. To your success!