Self-Discipline

“THROUGH SELF-DISCIPLINE COMES FREEDOM” – Aristotle

Self-discipline is a super inner power to achieve freedom. In fact, one of the goals of yoga is to attain self-discipline – the commitment to the practice on the mat. According to Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, self-discipline is known as ‘Tapas’, without which, one cannot see the positive results of yoga.

The training of self-discipline we get on the mat, is to be applied off the mat, to  reach both freedom as well as excellence in all aspects of our lives – being more productive at work, learning to be frugal with our finances, following a healthy diet, improving our interpersonal relationships, regulating our emotions, paying attention to what we say, or keeping a positive attitude.

Self-discipline is the fundamental action, mindset, and philosophy which, when aimed and applied at a goal, is quite literally a magic power. In fact, self-discipline is the strongest form of self-love. It’s  loving yourself so much that you are willing to postpone current pleasures to give yourself everything  you want.

However, we aren’t born with self-discipline — it’s a learned behavior. Being self-disciplined isn’t something we have — it is something we do. Self-discipline is a skill ,and as such, it needs to be mastered, with continuous practice and repetition. The rewards of the efforts of self-discipline go beyond words…just to name a few : ACHIEVEMENT, SELF-CONFIDENCE, STRENGTH OF CHARACTER, FREEDOM AND PEACE. 

HOW TO BUILD SELF-DISCIPLINE FOR FREEDOM and not DEPEND on MOTIVATION to keep going?

1) Know your “why”
Have a clear understanding of why you wish to accomplish the particular goal, as well as of what success looks like to you. Knowing your “why”, makes it easy to avoid getting sidetracked.

2) Have an execution plan.
Set up specific action, steps and establish a clear finish line.

3) Have a backup plan.
Setting your mind to your backup plan would provide you the necessary self-control to deal with a potentially difficult situation you will likely face.

4) Don’t depend on motivation.
Motivation is great to get the ball rolling, but motivation comes and goes on its own. Let motivation inspire you, use it while it last, but don’t expect it to stick around. The initial excitement will wear off, and this is where self-discipline comes in to help you stay on track.

5) Just do it.
To stay disciplined, you must adopt the mindset of “Just do it.” Be cautious of your mind which may give you countless reasons to excuse you from what you need to do. Be prepared for your mind to second-guess your decision, and to convince you out of what is best for you. Do not allow your mind to talk you out of your commitment. The decision is made — so follow through with it.

6) Forgive yourself and move forward.
Self- discipline is for life. Therefore, naturally, there will be ups and downs, great successes and gloomy disappointments. When you stumble, acknowledge what caused it, learn from it, forgive yourself, and move on. Do not let yourself get wrapped up in guilt, anger or frustration. The key is to keep moving forward in a self-supportive and loving way.

7) Reward yourself.
Anticipation is powerful. The main reward of your efforts will be your success. Also, give yourself something to be excited about by planning a reward when you accomplish your goals. Having something to look forward to, helps you stay on track, and moving toward your objective.
Self-discipline in and off the mat enables us to enjoy a life where we are less stressed, more successful, and happier.
What aspects of your life need self-discipline to help you to improve a sense of well-being?