How to Rely on Discipline Not Motivation
Setting goals provides an opportunity to align our focus, foster new behaviours and establish a strategy for success. Through accomplishing these goals, we are rewarded with personal growth, increased happiness and fulfilment.
Whilst we all have different goals and aspirations, it is completely normal to experience bouts of low motivation which can get in the way of our ability to stay on track. Usually something will motivate us to make an initial change however at some point this motivation will diminish and we will need to rely on discipline to keep us going. Unlike motivation, discipline is not linked to our emotions. Instead it embodies our ability to push forward and take action regardless of how we may be feeling. Practicing discipline allows us to feel more in control of our lives. It can also help us to overcome bad habits or addictions and is ultimately linked to higher rates of achievement and success.
So how do we become more disciplined?
1. Accept discipline will not be easy:
Rather than engaging in something because we want to do it, discipline requires us to power through even if we are not emotionally or physically feeling like it. It can be difficult to push through when our present self does not feel motivated to act therefore it is stay focused for our future self who will be able to reap the benefits.
2. Take small steps:
When we set unrealistic goals or try and change everything at once, we are much more likely to experience feelings of disappointment and frustration if we cannot stay on track. Our behaviour is much likely to be more sustainable if we make small changes as it allows us to focus on one thing at a time, setting a clearer pathway to our long term goals.
3. Don’t be too hard on yourself:
Discipline is not something we are born with, it is actually a learned skill that requires practice. We have to battle all forms of resistance whether it be negative mental, physical or emotional sensations which we experience when we are trying to accomplish something. It is important to forgive ourselves if we mess up and keep moving forward as the key is to not give up for good.
4. Holding yourself accountable:
Finding ways to hold yourself accountable will help you to stick to your self-discipline plans. Whether this be finding an accountability partner, writing an accountability plan which acknowledges your strengths and weaknesses as well as identifying possible obstacles that may set you back. Accountability plays a massive role in maintaining discipline.
Although motivation is great, it only provides us with momentum in the short-term. As we are unable to always rely on motivation to stimulate our effort for an extended period of time, it is important to practice self-discipline so we can reach our long-term goals. Remember, it won’t be easy however just like a muscle, the more we train discipline the stronger it will become.
If you are interested in learning additional techniques on how to improve motivation and productivity in your life, why not speak with one of our psychologists? Click here to book or give us a call on 1800 327 477 (AU) / 0800 327 477 (NZ)
Associated information:
8 tips for Healthy Productivity
The Importance of Routine for Good Mental Health
