Prioritize

The word discipline makes some people tense to even hear or speak it, because it means they must live within some type of order governed by rules and restrictions. Our natural tendency is to lean towards what we feel is liberating, unconfined, and “do what I want to do, when I want to do it” attitude and behavior. However, living a fruitful life of purpose in fulfillment of your destiny demands that you practice discipline in every area of your life.  Your ability or inability to live a disciplined life is evident in the following areas:

1. Your level of productivity.
2. The level of excellence you aspire to.
3. How you manage and maintain your resources (time, money, relationships, talents/gifts, mental/emotional/physical health, intellectual and physical property).
4. Your ability to finish what you started.
5. Your willingness to do what you do not want or feel like doing to achieve your desired result.

Your level of success and attainment of your goals is largely dependent on your ability to live a disciplined life.  The root word “disciple” is very significant in understanding the impact and importance of reaching a higher level of discipline. A disciple is a follower who has a devoted allegiance to the teachings of one chosen as a master. As a follower of Christ (Christian) this word is very familiar and serves as a way of life. In the word’s most general sense, you must be dedicated to strictly follow and effectively apply the practices and guidelines of the person, teachings, and/or field of study. A person can only be considered a disciple based on their willingness to commit and submit to the discipline. Therefore, whether we are talking about religious beliefs, studying/practicing medicine or law, or even a dietary and exercise plan, a person must be diligent to consistently conduct themselves in accordance with the orderly and prescribed teachings and behavior.

A disciplined life requires an ability to practice and maintain self-control.  We all have had struggles in some areas of our lives with maintaining self-control. You must learn how to say NO to the thoughts of “I don’t feel like it”, “this is too hard”, and “I’m tired of the same thing over and over”. These are all negative thoughts and will impede your ability to live a disciplined life if you give in to these thoughts.

There are different ways that we can practice self-discipline, below are 8 Ways to Create the Discipline Habit (www.entrepreneur.com):

1. Make the commitment.
2. Stay focused.
3. Prioritize tasks.
4. Get sufficient rest.
5. Eat for energy.
6. Do the little things.
7. Follow through.
8. Reward yourself.

Yes, discipline is often times painful, but practicing self-discipline can be done and is always very rewarding. However, we all have a choice, either we “suffer the pain of discipline or suffer the pain of regret”. What is your choice?

A life of discipline will lead you into a life of peace and joy in knowing that you are fulfilling your purpose and destiny, and the freedom of living out your dreams and passions. As we have now entered the New Year let’s all commit to increase our level of discipline, so that we can successfully fulfill our purpose and destiny in life.