Being disciplined is no fun. Let us be honest. No one likes being disciplined because it requires something many refuse to give – effort. Discipline requires a great deal of effort and oftentimes take you out of your comfort zone. The good news is the discomfort not only will pass but is necessary if you are committed to your purpose.
People who are disciplined mean business because their purpose is far greater than their emotions. They see the bigger picture and so should you. To better equip you for your life’s journey, here are five truths behind discipline.
It Builds Strength
Discipline is not for those with a brittle spirit. There will be moments where you want to give up or question why you started in the first place. When that moment surfaces, and it will, a deep reflection is necessary to stay on track. Overtime, the pain will become a part of the process and before you know it, finding ways to use is as fuel in route to your next great accomplishment.
It Requires Patience
Nothing worthwhile comes easy, and the goals we retrieve through discipline is no exception. The truth is, we have no idea when our goals and aspirations will come to fruition. But they will. Through time and patience anything is possible. And it is up to us and only us to keep this in mind through the wavering journey that may lead us to think being patient will not pay off.
It Relinquishes Pain
Pain for nothing is waste of time and emotionally draining. But every ounce of pain due to discipline is worth it. It is worth it because there is reason behind these rare moments that disrupt our lives which will come to pass.
When you experience pain, it is because you are reaching for the greater good. People will go great lengths to avoid pain because of fear and thus continue their journey with doubt and regret for what could have been. That is not you.
As strange as it may sound, I challenge you to absorb the pain and give into it. Think about what it does to you and how it makes you feel. As it passes through, you will grow a greater appreciation for the goals you set for yourself and are able add more layers of pain in the future as you become immune to certain levels of it.
It Removes Doubt
Doubt it a soul killer. There is no doubt about. When we doubt, we subconsciously rule out possibilities without evidence. It is like betting against yourself. Personally, doubt can attribute to internalizing the wrong external factors if you are not careful. For example, if you choose to spend time around people who do not add value to your life or constantly compare, self-doubt can loom over you based on surface-level factors.
It is important to always keep in mind that everything we see is not reality. In other words, there are layers to everyone and everything in this world. Do not judge, compete, or relish the lifestyle of someone else based on what you perceive to be a life worth living. Be grateful.
Understanding this solely comes down to getting out of your head and removing the false narrative of reality it loves to create while bourgeoning you with doubt.
It Shapes Your Future
I cannot stress the importance of these four words. By far, the greatest truth about discipline is that it shapes your future. When we choose to be disciplined, we choose to put off short-term pleasure for long-term progress. Think about it, how many times have you made an impulsive decision only to regret it later? We all have done it, and while it may sting to admit, it does not have to speak for who we are.
By choosing to learn from your mistakes and being more intentional when it comes to discipline, you can change the course of your life.
BONUS: Discipline Sets You Free
The great freedom one receives through discipline is a euphoric feeling. For instance, choosing to be disciplined is based on oneself. There is no one to hold your hand or see you through every step of the process except for yourself. And as daunting as that feeling may be, seeing it through is best release from the bondage our thoughts and fears have on us.
Bring it Home
In summary, discipline is hard. It requires a certain level of wherewithal that, if followed through, builds strength beyond measure. But it requires patience as well. And with that patience comes time. Time that people may not be willing to give because they lack commitment.
With the patience there will be pain. A pain that is temporary and with will pass and become a part of the process. Before you know it, you will realize the doubt that once existed is something of the past. And with all your burdens in the past comes a bright future and freedom.
Discipline is not a quick fix. It does not produce an instant amount of dopamine people crave However, it is a true measure and test of one’s ability to take control of their life by any means necessary. So, lean into it, accept it, and enjoy all that you will reap through a life where you embrace discipline.
—
Shutterstock image