Getting To The Bottom Of Self-Discipline

Self-discipline is one of the hardest things a person can master, even though self-disciplined people tend to be happier and lead healthier lives. Sometimes we really can be our own worst enemies, and getting to the bottom of self-discipline means no longer being that enemy to yourself. Those with self-discipline know how to ward off the behaviors that make them less happy and less successful in the long run.

The first step to mastering your own self-discipline is to be honest about your weaknesses. Whether your weakness is an action like sleeping in or shopping, or a thing like chocolate chip cookies or late-night ice cream binges, not being honest about them will result in turning back to them time and time again. By honestly identifying your weaknesses, you’re showing that you’re ready to face them head-on.

Next, you’ll want to remove those temptations until you have complete control over them. For instance, if shopping is your weakness, you might want to take your credit cards and have your spouse hide them from you for a time so you can’t be tempted to use them. If you have a sweet tooth that won’t quit, take all the sweets out of the pantry.

Lastly, you’ll want to set a goal and stick to it. Make yourself a clear vision of what you want to accomplish and where you want your self-discipline to take you. This vision is your goal, and it gives you something to work toward. Mastering self-discipline is hard work, and meeting your goal gives you a reward for all the work you’ve put in.

As you work harder to master self-discipline, this practice will start to come to reality more easily. You’ll find that the things you struggled with before are a source of empowerment now, and that you have complete control over all facets of your life.