Self-Discipline
Proverbs 25:28
A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.
Are you able to control yourself from pouring your anger on anyone who offends you?
If you can do that, congratulations—you have impressive self-discipline. Well, either that, or you particularly enjoy working out at the start of every morning and see it as enjoyable rather than as another part of your usual daily routine.
Cultivating self-discipline is the cornerstone of personal growth and achievement. It is the ability to control our impulses, stay focused on our goals, and push through challenges. When we develop self-discipline, we unlock the power to transform our lives and reach new heights of success.
Self-discipline is one of those things that most people struggle with, at least sometimes. People are not always able to convince themselves to do what they need to do, and when they are unable to do so, we say they lack discipline, especially when it is something that the person is capable of but did not do because they felt the desire not to.
If you master the art of self-discipline, there is nothing you cannot accomplish.
What is Self-Discipline?
Self-discipline focuses on your ability for self-control. You can avoid doing pleasant things, but you know are unhealthy, such as drinking to excess or smoking etc. Although drinking that entire bottle of wine or that whole six-pack of beer might seem enjoyable, you recognize that it is unhealthy and something that should be avoided.
Self-discipline, then, is the ability to say no to drinking alcohol. You can make decisions that are healthier or better for you.
These people that develop strong self-discipline and can keep that degree of control over themselves, coincidentally, also find themselves far happier than those who do not.
They feel more satisfied with themselves because they know that they were able to resist those urges to engage in unhealthy behavior, and because of that, they are more likely to have a better mindset.
Developing Self-Discipline
You may now be wondering how to develop self-discipline, especially if you have always been more impulsive. The good news is that doing so is entirely possible—you can learn how to be more disciplined through a few simple steps.
1. Understand your weaknesses
When you understand your weaknesses, you can recognize situations that will be particularly tempting to you. When you can recognize when something is tempting you, you will then be able to take the steps necessary to avoid giving in.
What is your biggest defect that you always give in to that you would like to eradicate from your life?
When you understand it, you can avoid it.
2. Out of sight, out of mind
What helps when the urge hits are to ensure that whatever you are resisting is not easily available in those moments of weakness. Just as it is advised that alcoholics and drug addicts not to have any of their drugs anywhere near them.
3. Practice, practice, practice
This is where the hard work starts—here, you will begin actively implementing self-discipline and practicing it. Just like every other skill you have ever attempted to master, from driving to learning a new language, this will take practice, repetition, and effort. However, the more effort that you put into it, the more satisfying you will realize the result is.
4. Setting goals
The first step to practicing is to start a new plan of action. You want to set your goals and stick to them. Make your goals as clear as possible:
You want to go to the gym, or you want to minimize screen time (phone, TV, etc),
Whatever your goal is, you must have a clear image of what success looks like. It could be being able to run a mile in a certain amount of time, or maybe it is losing weight after replacing your sweet drinks addiction with the consumption of healthy, fresh fruit smoothies to satisfy your need.
No matter what, create that goal, set that goal, and envision that goal. Keeping your goal in mind and envisioning it,
5. Follow New Habits
The easiest way to overcome a bad habit is to train yourself to follow a good habit instead. You can do this by making better choices and gradually your goal will become part of your life.
6. Do it Again Even When You Fail
Lastly, recognize that failure happens. Yes, you are attempting to develop discipline, which is entirely built upon being in control, but accidents happen.
Just because you slip-up once or twice does not make you a failure, nor does it mean that you are incapable of ever learning the art of disciplining yourself. With practice, commitment and patience, you will be able to overcome.
If failure is treated as a minor inconvenience, and a learning opportunity, for example, you are more likely to continue than if you see it as a major indiscretion worthy of significant shame and punishment. Just brush yourself off and move on after failing.
Conclusion
At the heart of self-discipline lies the capacity to delay gratification and prioritize long-term rewards over short-term pleasures. This skill empowers us to stay committed to our dreams, even when the path becomes difficult. By harnessing self-discipline, we can overcome procrastination, build healthy habits, and consistently take the necessary steps to realize our aspirations.
Self-discipline is not just about willpower; it is a skill that can be cultivated and strengthened over time. Through mindful practice, we can rewire our brain to respond to temptation with resilience and determination. With each small victory, we build the confidence and momentum to tackle ever-greater obstacles.
By: Mr. Stephen Adzasu
Licensed Counsellor, Marriage Coach, Relationship Coach, and Certified Prepare/Enrich Facilitator dedicated to empowering individuals and couples to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience. Mental Health Advocate and skilled IT professional adept in System Engineering, Networking, Digital Marketing, Web Development, Graphic Designing, etc. A multifaceted leader and motivational speaker committed to personal growth and inspiring positive change.