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Self-discipline means acting on our intentions without being deterred by a lack of desire, challenges, temptations, and other influences.
Many of us experience the daily conflict between the desire to eat healthier and the temptations of fast food and sweets. After a long day at work, we often feel stressed and exhausted. In such moments, it is much easier to order a pizza instead of preparing and cooking a meal. The temptation is strong, and we often choose the unhealthy but convenient alternative.
Why is being self-disciplined so difficult for many people?
One primary reason is that our brains prioritize short-term rewards over long-term ones. Immediate gratification of our desires and the associated feeling of happiness (dopamine) are more attractive than pursuing long-term goals and being rewarded later.
What is self-discipline? (Definition)
Self-discipline is the ability to control oneself and make conscious decisions that align with one’s needs, goals, and values.
Essentially, self-discipline is the art of prioritizing oneself and one’s goals so that external temptations and distractions have little or no influence (self-respect plays a role here as well!). It means focusing on what truly matters rather than being swayed by short-term rewards and pleasures. This is often easier said than done and requires strength, perseverance, and willpower.
Individuals with strong self-discipline follow through on their intentions and take control of their lives. They are in the driver’s seat of their lives instead of being the co-pilot.
Why is self-discipline so important and valuable?
Self-discipline helps us continue pursuing our goals even when things become challenging and unpleasant or when we don’t feel like it. By actively working on our self-discipline, we can handle temptations better, control our emotions, and mindfully align our actions. Ultimately, this leads to greater self-control and positively impacts our personal growth and satisfaction in life.
No Motivation, No Self-Discipline
Self-discipline is closely linked to motivation. Coming up with the necessary self-discipline for our intentions requires a compelling reason (a strong WHY) that motivates us.
If our motivation is not strong enough, it will be challenging to stay self-disciplined and keep working towards our goals.
The most crucial question we must answer honestly is:
Am I willing to pay the price of change?
To answer this question with a resounding “Yes,” we need a strong “Why.” The “Why” is the reason why we want to pursue or accomplish something. It serves as our drive and motivation. Therefore, whenever we have a project or goal in mind, we must identify the true reason behind it.
- Why do I want to eat healthier?
- Why do I want to lose weight?
- Why do I want to go for a run every day?
Only when we are aware of our motivation, and only when it is strong enough, can we be self-disciplined. Only in this case are we ready to pay the price of change. Motivation is the fuel for self-discipline.
The price of change may include:
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Waking up early to exercise before work and prepare a healthy breakfast.
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The extra effort required for grocery shopping and preparing a nutritious and healthy meal.
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Going to the gym instead of spending the evening on the comfortable couch.
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Waking up early to work out while the rest of the family is still asleep.
All of these plans only work when we consider ourselves and our intentions more critical than all the distractions, norms, and expectations from our environment. Self-discipline also requires a healthy dose of egoism. Only then can we resist social pressures and norms, remaining disciplined and focused on our goal.
A typical example for self-discipline in daily life:
Suppose you want to lose weight and eat healthier. In this case, it takes a considerable amount of self-discipline to stick to your intentions during dinner with friends or family: It means not drinking alcohol or eating only salad and vegetables while everyone else enjoys all these fancy drinks and tasty dishes.
The temptation to conform to others’ behavior instead of adhering to your principles is very high. That is precisely why having a supportive circle of people who share similar goals can be so helpful in strengthening our self-discipline.
How build and develop self-discipline? 6 Tips to be more self-disciplined
Setting Clear Goals:
Setting clear and specific goals helps maintain motivation and focus. The goal must align with our true selves as well as our values and needs. Only then are we ready to develop the necessary self-discipline to pursue and achieve it.
Self-Reflection:
Self-reflection is the ability to observe and analyze our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Through self-reflection, we recognize when we deviate from our chosen path and jeopardize our self-discipline. With awareness through self-reflection, we can take measures to counteract it.
Supportive Environment:
A supportive circle of people plays a significant role in promoting self-discipline. People who encourage, motivate, support us, or share similar goals can help us pursue our intentions and overcome challenges.
Building Good Habits And Routines:
Establishing routines and healthy habits can strengthen self-discipline. Once certain behaviors become habits, it becomes easier to stick to them without consciously deciding to do them each time. For example, making it a habit to exercise or do yoga every morning after waking up brings you closer to your goal of living a healthier lifestyle.
Celebrate and reward small successes: Implementing a reward system can support self-discipline. By rewarding ourselves for achieved goals or milestones, we increase motivation and strengthen discipline to continue following our path.
Mastering emotions:
Being able to control our emotions is crucial for self-discipline. By learning to recognize and regulate our emotions, we can avoid impulsive behavior and make better decisions.
