Discipline and Happiness

Greetings and salutations,

Discipline is one of those funny words. When we were children, being “disciplined” at home or at school was not a happy time. It was about punishment. Because of this association with negativity, I believe that many people shun the idea of discipline and certainly do not associate it with happiness. I believe the word discipline is misunderstood. It is actually derived from the Latin word disciplina, meaning “instruction given, teaching, or learning”. So, discipline is not inherently negative- it is about learning. Self-discipline is therefore about teaching ourselves a way of being, of behaving, of doing, of relating … and then sticking to this learning.

Discipline is the bridge between your goals and your accomplishments. – Jim Rohn

Well, my experience is that discipline and happiness go together like peas and carrots (Thank you Forrest Gump). Try this exercise and tell me how it works for you.

Step 1: Look at the last week or month and assess your performance. What did you get done? How did you act? On a scale from 1 to 10, how did you rate when comparing the “you” at your absolute best? If you’re like many people, you did not come close to the best-version-of-yourself during this time period.

Step 2: Plan the next week or month. Far more than a “things to do” list, this is about creating an image of what you would like to accomplish and how you will “be” during this time frame. For example, you might commit to being more kind, supportive, patient or optimistic. You may commit to maintaining a positive attitude in challenging circumstances. The point is that it is more about “being” than “doing”. When this week or month is over, simply repeat step 1. Assess and rate. Now, how do you feel?

The happiest people I have ever met are those that are doing what they are called to do and are being who they are called to be. “Sure,” they’ll tell you, “it takes discipline.” Please give it a try and tell me how it works for you.