Developing Self-Discipline

Self-discipline, what is that you may ask?  It is the ability to direct oneself in sticking to tasks that you desire to do or not do.  It is the ability to tell yourself no I don't need that and sticking to it.  It is the ability to do the required task even when you don't want to.  This is not something that you are born with.  This is something that you learn.

As children we see something we want, we go after it regardless of good or bad.  We have little to no impulse control.  As we age we can be taught the value of evaluating good from bad, waiting verses right now and future goals verses current desires.

There are some who still do not develop this trait into their adulthood.  There are some who choose not to exercise this trait and there are some who understand this trait, want to have it but find it difficult to do so.

Why is self- discipline important.  Self-discipline is the trait that allows you to achieve goals and dreams.  Self- discipline is the trait that can mean the difference between a happy life and a not so happy life.  Self-discipline is the trait that allows us to act responsibly in difficult situations.

So now that we know how important it is, how exactly do we go about learning and developing this trait?  Much like physical fitness, self- discipline is a trait you develop through action. Once you decide to develop this trait then you begin to use it.  At first it will not be easy.  You may look at that cookie and say I really want that cookie but if I eat it I may not be able to stop at one.  You may look at the undesirable task and find it difficult to get motivated and do it.

Here are some tips:

1.  Develop self- discipline one task at a time.  Don't try to change your life overnight.  Take one task like saying no to something you want or doing one task that you don't like to do, but needs to get done.  Stick with your plan one day at a time. Then add additional things as each task becomes easier.

2.  Find someone who can help keep you on track.  A coach or accountability partner can help you stick with things if you know that you are gong to have to report your success or failure to someone else.

3. Remove temptations from your reach.  If you are trying to stay away from something, don't have it where it will be readily available for you to get.

4. If you are trying to reach a goal and your action plan includes unpleasant tasks, do them as soon in the day as you can.  If you face those tasks early then you can look forward to more enjoyable ones later.

5. Find ways to celebrate your victories.  Reward yourself for sticking with your goals.  But make sure that the reward does not set your self-discipline back.  If you are trying to stay away from something don't reward yourself with it.  Find other ways to celebrate.  If you are trying to do something don't avoid the task as a reward for doing it etc.

You will have set back because no one is perfect.  Don't beat yourself up over it.  Just get back on track and start the journey again.  Be persistent and it will get easier.