There is a lot of
advice out there on how to be a success. ”Think big,” “Give first,” “Create goals,” “Be vulnerable,” “Create relationships.” The list goes on. It’s all good advice. But I don’t see many people talking about one of the core character traits that define successful people – self-discipline.
Let’s first clarify what we are talking about: Self-discipline is the ability to control one’s thoughts, feelings, and actions to achieve a long-term goal, even when faced with temptations or low motivation. It involves consciously choosing to pursue what you believe is right and beneficial for you, rather than succumbing to instant gratification or external pressures.
Here’s an example from my life. I have been swimming laps in the morning a couple of times a week for decades, because I know that it keeps my back from hurting. If II miss a couple of weeks, my back begins to ache. .
Image you are in Michigan, in February, and it is 6:30 AM. It is dark and cold outside, the wind is nasty, and six inches of snow covers the ground. Now, drive through the Icey and dark streets to the swimming pool. As you exit the car, you slip on the ice and the cold snow slides down your shoe. Once inside, you change clothes and then jump into a cold pool
of water and swim back and forth for 30 minutes in the most boring exercise known to mankind.
