6 tips to improve self discipline
today we’re going to dig into some self-discipline.
What is Self-Discipline?
Hint: It’s what you need to keep going to the gym, stick to your diet, or just get to bed earlier.
Self-discipline is about getting things done, no matter what. It’s pushing through discomfort to reach your goals, depending on yourself to move from where you are to where you want to be. It’s about controlling your actions despite temptations, distractions, or laziness.
Sounds simple, right? But we all know it’s not easy. Here are some tips to make it a bit more manageable.
The 10-Minute Rule
Our brains can overcomplicate decisions, sometimes leading us to make poor choices. A Harvard study showed that chimpanzees were better at delaying gratification than humans! Why? Because we tend to overthink and justify bad behavior.
Enter the 10-Minute Rule: When you feel an urge, wait ten minutes before giving in. If you still want it after ten minutes, go ahead—or wait another ten. This simple practice helps you build discipline by delaying gratification.
This rule isn’t just for avoiding temptations. If you’re tempted to quit something beneficial, like a workout, commit to just ten more minutes. Often, once you get started, momentum will carry you through.
I’ve used this rule myself when I’m tempted to skip a workout. I tell myself, “Just ten minutes,” and before I know it, I’m halfway through and feeling great.
Avoiding the False Hope Trap
We often underestimate how hard it is to change our habits and set goals that are too high, leading to disappointment and giving up. This is called the False Hope Syndrome.
Instead of setting yourself up for failure, start with realistic, attainable goals. For example, if you’re trying to quit smoking, don’t aim to quit cold turkey right away. Start by cutting back gradually. This way, you’ll build momentum and avoid the discouragement that comes from unrealistic expectations.
It’s important to be honest with yourself about your strengths and limitations. Setting goals that are challenging but achievable helps you make steady progress without getting overwhelmed.
Embrace Discomfort
Self-discipline is uncomfortable by nature, but that’s not a bad thing—it’s something you can train. The best way to do this is by regularly stepping out of your comfort zone. When you push yourself to do things that make you uncomfortable, you build resilience and increase your tolerance for discomfort.
Jia Jiang’s TED Talk is a great example of this. He spent 100 days seeking out rejection to overcome his fear of it. By the end, he was more confident and less afraid of discomfort.
We all have fears and discomforts that hold us back. But by facing them head-on, we can grow stronger. Whether it’s ordering something unfamiliar at a restaurant or taking a cold shower, small acts of discomfort can help build your self-discipline.
Ask Yourself the Tough Question
Here’s a straightforward question to keep yourself in check:
Am I doing what’s right, or just what’s easy?
Often, the right thing is the hard thing. It’s easy to make excuses, but being honest with yourself is key to building discipline. When you catch yourself rationalizing, remind yourself of the truth: you’re avoiding the hard work.
Instead of saying, “It’s too hot to run,” try, “I’m skipping my run because I’m choosing the easy way out.” This kind of brutal honesty might be tough, but it’s essential for accountability.
Be Kind to Yourself
While discipline is important, don’t forget to practice self-compassion. Setbacks are part of the journey, not the end of it. When you stumble, acknowledge it without beating yourself up, and refocus on your goals. Being kind to yourself actually helps you stay motivated and resilient.
Start Small, Start Now
Self-discipline is like a muscle—you can strengthen it over time. Start with small, manageable steps and gradually push your limits. Whether it’s using the 10-Minute Rule, embracing discomfort, or asking yourself the tough questions, every little bit helps.
Remember, it’s not about being perfect—it’s about making steady progress toward the life you want.
If you’re ready to take control and build lasting self-discipline, click here book a free no sweat intro for next week and let’s chat.
