Discipline is a concept everyone is aware of, but few truly understand. The most successful people in life exert discipline on a daily basis. It is vital to every living being and without it, the world around us would be chaos.
To be a great and inspiring leader, you must constantly display restraint. Not giving into something you truly want is a sign of strength. Making the right decisions in life can make or break you, and this type of person tends to make the right decisions. Regardless of where you exert this self-restraint, it will help to promote achievement in your life.
"Talent without discipline is like an octopus on roller skates. There's plenty of movement, but you never know if it's going to be forward, backwards, or sideways."
Discipline brings stability and structure into a person’s life. It teaches a person to be responsible and respectful. The observance of well-defined rules is the basis of society. If there were no discipline, people would do whatever they wanted and make mistakes without putting the consideration of others first and foremost. It promotes good human behavior to better society and make it a more enjoyable place for everyone to live.
The ability for an individual to have self-restraint allows them to behave in a consistently stringent and controlled manner. A lack of this ability can have disastrous results. Do you think a company is going to tolerate a person who is consistently late to work or who procrastinates in doing their work? It is evident how these behaviors will weaken the image of a business.
"Mental toughness is many things and rather difficult to explain. Its qualities are sacrifice and self-denial. Also, most importantly, it is combined with a perfectly disciplined will that refuses to give in. It's a state of mind -- you could call it character in action." — Vince Lombardi
Think of athletics: discipline is the fundamental aspect on which sports have been created. Every player must adhere to the rules of the game. This is why umpires and referees exist. Whoever does not follow these guidelines will be penalized for violating the rules of the sport.
Persons in high authority must demonstrate high levels of restraint constantly; they cannot just speak however they see fit. A smart leader knows when to hold his tongue and when to speak. Discipline helps to train a person’s mind and character, building a sense of self-control and the practice of obedience.
"Self-discipline is a form of freedom. Freedom from laziness and lethargy, freedom from the expectations and demands of others, freedom from weakness and fear — and doubt. Self-discipline allows a pitcher to feel his individuality, his inner strength, his talent. He is master of, rather than a slave to, his thoughts and emotions."
There are two types of discipline: internal and external. Internal discipline is your self-restraint and your ability to differentiate right from wrong. External discipline is according to societal norms, such as following the law. It is not sufficient enough to possess great qualities; we need the ability to manage them.
Too many people are susceptible to instant gratification. People lacking control are unable to look at the long-term effects of their actions. This further demonstrates why this is such a crucial skill to have in life. It is probably the most crucial factor when trying to achieve a goal. It allows you to choose from different options and by following these options you can garner the success you sought out for. It additionally gives you the authority to overcome any obstacles that come your way.
“Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.”
This ability can be developed or strengthened at any given time if you put your mind to it. Make promises and make sure you deliver. Make the genuine effort to align your actions and behaviors with your thoughts. Exercise; get your mind and body into shape. Resist the urge to give into negative behaviors, instead focus on all of the positive attributes.
