“With self-discipline, all things are possible. Without it, even the simplest goal can seem like the impossible dream.” ~Theodore Roosevelt
In his article, How to Build Self-Discipline, Peter Clemens says: “Self-discipline involves acting according to what you think instead of how you feel in the moment.” Clemens discusses how inner purpose led to the self-discipline he needed to, among other things, become an early riser. He goes on to list five traits of developing self-discipline:
- Self-Knowledge
Develop a personal mission statement. He suggests using Dr. Stephen Covey’s Mission Statement Builder. - Conscious Awareness
Become aware of your undisciplined behavior and eventually over time you will have awareness before you act in an undisciplined way; and you are aware you will be able to make the choice for self-discipline. - Commitment to Self-Discipline
Make a commitment to your goals and values. Make a conscious decision to do what you say you are going to do. Keep yourself honest by tracking your commitments. - Courage
Developing self-discipline is not easy; in fact, because it involves change can be down-right difficult. It takes courage to push through difficulty and sometimes pain, and face the challenges that surface during change. Self-confidence that you are on the right track will emerge as you experience the positive effects of self-discipline and courage will come more naturally. - Internal Coaching
Encourage and reassure yourself when your goals are challenged, you need courage, your commitment is waning, and you need to stay on task. Clemens has a quote he relies on when tested. It is “The price of discipline is always less than the pain of regret”. I simply say “Feed Your Good Dog.” and it takes me back to where I need to be.
What quote or phrase do you use to encourage or reassure yourself when situations occur to take you off track?