Huma Siraj
In a society when instant gratification is only a click away, self-control is frequently neglected.
However, if you’ve ever looked up to someone who seems to achieve all of their goals in life be they professional, health, relationships, or personal development, you’ll probably discover that discipline is the key.
Those who are disciplined are not flawless. Theyare not always resistant to temptation or feel driven. The distinction is that they have developed routines that enable them to maintain consistency and attention under pressure. This self control builds up over time and eventually provides them the advantage.
No 1. They take the long view
Short term successes are not the obsession of disciplined people. They realize that life is not so much a sprint as it is a marathon. They focus on longer-term objectives that could take years to accomplish rather than pursuing short-term dopamine surges.
Imagine a person preparing for a triathlon. They don’t simply decide to run, bike, and swim their way to fame one day. They put in months or even years of training since they are aware that the benefits outweigh the costs. This kind of thinking is applied by disciplined people in all aspects of their lives, including saving money, establishing a job, and preserving wholesome relationships.
“Will this choice help me or hurt me in the long run?” is a question they ask themselves frequently. And when momentary temptations arise, that question alone helps them stay grounded.
No 2. They establish and follow routines
Self-control is more about organization than willpower. People with discipline are aware of this. They create routines that automate their positive habits rather than letting their emotions control their behavior.
For instance, they would prepare their weekly meals on Sundays or work out at the same time every morning. They minimize the number of daily decisions they must make by establishing predictable routines. This keeps them constant and conserves mental energy.
If you’ve ever had trouble forming a habit, learn from them and establish routines that help you achieve your objectives. Your need for self-control will decrease as your beneficial habits become more habitual.
No 3. They are aware of the benefits of mindfulness
Being strict or punishing oneself is not the definition of discipline. It all comes down to awareness, recognizing when your urges come on and resisting the want to give in to them. Herein lies the role of mindfulness.
Being present is something that disciplined people practice. They are aware of when they are tempted, agitated, or preoccupied, but they do not act on it right away. Real self-control exists in this space between impulse and action.
For me, practicing mindfulness has changed everything. I examine how Buddhist teachings provide useful strategies to hone this precise ability in my book, Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How to Live with Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego. Being more attentive helps you better understand your life’s purpose and clarity while also giving you more control over your habits.
No 4. They welcome discomfort
Disciplined people know this: suffering is a necessary part of growth. They understand that discomfort is a vital part of the process, whether it’s enduring a challenging workout, fighting the need to buy something superfluous, or dealing with challenging emotions.
They lean toward pain rather than run from it. They remind themselves that every difficult situation is an opportunity to become more resilient. Tolerating suffering is like training a muscle; the more you do it, the stronger you become.
The next time you feel like giving up when things become difficult, keep in mind that this is the very moment that your discipline muscle is being put to the test and strengthened.
No 5. They delineate borders.
Self control is something that disciplined people don’t just happen to have. To safeguard their focus, time, and energy, they establish limits. They might, for instance, block distracting websites while at work, refuse late-night social engagements before a crucial meeting, or keep their phones out of the bedroom.
By establishing limits, they eliminate conflict. They understand that discipline is about creating an environment that makes doing the right thing easier, not merely about pushing harder.
Ask yourself, “What boundaries could I set to make this easier?” if you frequently struggle with self-control. To avoid being tempted by takeaway, it might be as easy as meal planning nutritious meals or removing social media apps during the week.
No 6. They postpone satisfaction
Do you recall the well known marshmallow test? Decades later, children who were able to postpone gratification, waiting for two marshmallows rather than eating one at once, performed better in life. This is a principle that disciplined people live by every day.
They are prepared to forgo instant gratification in favor of something more significant in the future. In order to invest in their future, they will refrain from making rash purchases.
In order to feel stronger and more energized tomorrow, they will refrain from eating unhealthy snacks. They will forgo a leisurely afternoon to concentrate on a project that has the potential to transform their lives.
One of the best indicators of long term success is the capacity to wait and strive for greater rewards. What’s the good news? Anyone can practice this talent. Build from a minor starting point, such as waiting ten minutes before giving in to a craving.
No 7. They prioritize development above perfection
People with discipline are aware that they are not machines. Sometimes they make mistakes. However, they concentrate on making improvement rather than criticizing themselves. All of their hard work is not undone by a single mistake. Getting back on track as soon as possible is what counts.
This change in perspective is significant. Because it causes you to give up the instant you make a mistake, perfectionism destroys discipline. Contrarily, progress thinking keeps you going forward despite your flaws.
“Did I do this perfectly today?” is not a question that disciplined individuals ask. “Am I better than I was yesterday?” they inquire.
That is the key to their tenacity and sustained prosperity.
No 8. They match their values with their Behaviors
Lastly, disciplined individuals don’t merely impose their habits on themselves because they “should.”
Their values are the foundation of their discipline.
They allow their values to direct their daily decisions because they are aware of what is most important to them, whether it be family, freedom, contribution, or health.
For instance, a person who loves their health views exercise as a means of living life to the fullest and taking care of their body, rather than as a chore. Budgeting is seen as empowerment rather than constraint by someone who loves financial freedom.
Discipline feels more like alignment and less like sacrifice when your behaviors are in accordance with your ideals. Being true to who you are and what matters most to you is now more important than pushing yourself.
Bringing everything together
Being the roughest or most obstinate person in the room is not the goal of self-control. It’s about developing routines and structures that help you stay true to your core beliefs and long-term objectives.
True discipline is built on the eight habits listed above: playing the long game, adhering to routines, exercising mindfulness, embracing discomfort, setting boundaries, deferring gratification, focusing on progress, and connecting with ideals. Additionally, they set you up for long-term success and fulfillment when you practice them regularly.
My book Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How to Live with Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego provides a useful road map for cultivating mindfulness, discipline, and purpose if you wish to delve more into these concepts. Anyone who wishes to live a more controlled and clear life will find it to be a kind yet effective guidance.
Disciplined people don’t ultimately “Win” because they’re more intelligent or fortunate. They succeed because they have developed winning habits. And anyone may begin doing it today, even you.
