By: Jernavis Draughn
Success in anything starts with self-discipline. The ability to self-govern your mind and actions is essential in order to reach your full potential. Are you able to say “NO”? It is probably one of the hardest words to say when your will power is being tested. Especially if the decision is connected to one of your six human needs that drives your life (Certainty, Uncertainty/Variety, Significance, Growth, Love/Connection or Contribution). We yearn for distraction and crave for personal acceptance by others. This type of behavior affects our will power to make the right decision. Jim Rohn once said, “Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishments”.
I struggle with sustaining long periods of discipline throughout my day. When my mind becomes cluttered and need a water break or just decides to sub itself out of the game, I tend to have a conversation with myself to refocus my mind back to my overall goals for the day. I constantly review my goals in order to provide clarity on where I am going and the actions I need to take to achieve them. The amount of self-discipline equals the amount of self-love you have for YOURSELF. We allow social media, television, video games, cell phones and PEOPLE to distract us from being productive, and thereby causes us to make regretful decisions. We also allow instant PLEASURES, to win over feeling lasting PAIN in the future that may be necessary for us to grow. We must all choose one of two pains: PAIN of discipline or the pain of REGRET!
I believe self-discipline starts first, with LOVING yourself and having standards that you live by. There is not a 5 step method that teaches you how to discover self-love. YOU must first get to know God. And in doing so, you will discover what you stand for, what you believe in, and a clear understanding of your personal values and purpose.
Every moment is a memory. We are defined by our words and actions. I believe you should always think before you speak, ponder before you take action and live your TRUTH! The difference between WHO you are and WHO you want to be is WHAT YOU DO!
Quote of the Day: “Self-trust is the first secret of SUCCESS!”-Ralph Waldo Emerson