Self-discipline is the highest form of discipline.
To exercise self-discipline a compelling reason must exist.
In my experience there is no greater reason for self-discipline than having a vision for your life, which is generated by your purpose. Your vision allows you to see into the future and focus on what you want to achieve. It reveals the personal changes you need to make to fulfill your vision.
When you become captured by your vision you are unstoppable. The excitement released by your vision causes you to assess yourself honestly. This self-evaluation reveals the areas where you may lack self-control. Either someone or something governs that part of your life. You awaken to the reality that without gaining control in these areas, no matter how big your vision, you risk the possibility of not achieving it. Awareness provides you the most compelling reason to exercise self-discipline.
How I lost 10 pounds in two weeks
I was out of control. I lacked self-discipline when it came eating unhealthy foods. Apparently, food controlled me and I became its victim stuffing myself with all kinds of sweets and carbs. The typical food of my Hispanic culture is delicious and tasty, but it’s full of fats, sweets and carbs.
I had never connected character with my lack of self-discipline in this area. Until one day it dawned on me that if can’t say NO to unhealthy and tempting foods, then I can’t say NO to temptation and sin. The same principle operates in both cases – a lack of self-discipline.
Upon this enlightening revelation, I concluded that in order to fulfill my vision I needed to be healthy. I took this opportunity to build my character while losing a few pounds. Every time I can stand unmoved by the temptation of unhealthy foods, something inside me gets stronger. I reduced about 90% of carbs from my diet and the pounds began to come off! I learned to become a master of myself instead of being mastered by external forces. This quality is indispensable to fulfill my life purpose and my vision.
By exercising self-control in how I eat, I did in two weeks what I couldn’t do in over ten years!
Where do you need self-discipline?
Choose one area that you feel the need to exercise self-control. Some examples are:
- Speech ‒ controlling the words that come out of your mouth.
- Health ‒ limiting the type and amount of food that goes into your mouth.
- Finances ‒ handling your money and debt better.
- Commitment ‒ managing your time better.
How compelling is your reason for self-discipline?
The highest form of discipline is the one directed by the values that guide your life, motivated by your vision, and generated by your life purpose.
There is so much truth and yet some how it seems unbelievable that is in our total control to develop the discipline to advance our goals, purpose , health, careers etc. Interestingly enough, I asked a well known neurologist one day when is the correct time to start disciplining a child and he replied, “from day one”. Nonetheless, I firmly believe that “day one” comes to us the moment we realized that we have been lacking in such an amazing part of our lives. Is the moment when I also see the need of receiving coaching to master such discipline in order to succeed in everything we do.
Well said dear sis….
Looking back, I find it hard to believe that I have deprive my body the opportunity to excel, specially in the area of health, because of my lack of self-control!
Now that I have gained control in this area, I am looking forward to exercising discipline in other areas of my life.
They key here is that WE CAN do it, if we have a compelling reason!