| SolveYourProblem
Article Series: Motivation
What
Will It Take To Motivate Me?
3
Simple Ways to Be More Disciplined
Lack of self-discipline can often be an annoying
“catch-22.” You find that you need a certain measure of self-discipline
in order to become more disciplined, and not having it can
cause you to go around in circles trying to make positive changes
in your life.
If you are struggling to build up your level of self-discipline,
it may not be as difficult as you think – provided you start
with these 3 simple steps:
Start
with willpower
Self-discipline eventually becomes a habit, just like any
other activity you do on a regular basis. Until then, however,
you are likely faced with the challenge of overcoming your
other habits while trying to form new ones.
One good way to get over this hump is by asserting your willpower,
consciously and repeatedly. “Willpower” is defined as “energetic
determination.” That means making a conscious CHOICE to take
a certain action (or to avoid taking certain other actions).
When you find your self-discipline slipping, remind yourself
that you have the power to choose what you do or don’t do –
by pure force of will. Avoid allowing outside influences to
make your choices for you. Turn your attention inward and make
a conscious decision about your actions.
Keep
the end result in mind
The reason temptation is so seductive is that we get sidetracked
by what we stand to gain right now, instead of what we stand
to gain at some later time. Telling yourself you prefer a healthy,
strong body six months from now may be difficult when you’re
staring at a donut dripping with sweet, gooey icing. All you
can think about is the pleasure you’ll gain from eating the
donut now, rather than the benefits you’ll gain from sticking
to your health program.
In order to keep temptation from sabotaging your self-discipline
efforts, keep a strong reminder of your ultimate goal with
you at all times. This can be a photograph from a magazine,
a written description of your dream, or even a written vow
to yourself.
When you feel tempted to abandon your goals for a momentary
pleasure – stop and ask yourself if it’s really worth it. Take
out your reminder and revisit your goal again. If the goal
is still vitally important to you, you should have no trouble
choosing the right action.
Repetition
and reinforcement
Self-discipline is formed one decision at a time! You may
think of self-discipline as something you either have or don’t,
but it’s not usually that simple. Developing true self-discipline
is an ongoing process, not a one-time event.
If you make this insight a part of your long-term plan, you
cannot fail! Simply keep making conscious choices for yourself
moment to moment, and your self-discipline will be formed as
you go along.
In addition, be sure to keep giving yourself positive reinforcement.
When you slip up, be sure NOT to beat yourself up over it.
Instead, acknowledge that you made a poor choice, and make
a better one next time. When you do make a positive choice,
shout it from the rooftops! (At least inside your own mind.)
Praise yourself and reward yourself for being able to stay
aware and faithful to your long-term goal.
The more positive reinforcement you can give yourself, the
less painful will be your journey to true self-discipline.
Click here to discover my current SolveYourProblem recommendation and choice pick for the fastest, easiest and best motivational solution you'll find anywhere. Get it and reward yourself with a more fulfilling, passionate life.
# # # # #
by SolveYourProblem.com
: 2006
> Home > Motivation
Articles : Main Page
|
