How to Build Self-Discipline

The other day, I struggled with self-discipline.

I warred with myself, negotiated, revisited arguments, made imaginary pro and con lists, and eventually realized that no, I could not get out of my daily workout.

This happens pretty much every day, actually.

5 o’clock rolls around — my designated time for exercise — and I start to wonder: do I really need to do my workout today? What if I only did half my workout? What if I went for a walk around the block instead? What if I did some light stretching instead? What if I just stayed on the couch eating potato chips instead?

Rather than getting down to business, I was negotiating with myself. This went on until I finally realized what I was doing. After which, I took a deep breath, put on my workout clothes, and went outside to do the darn thing.

Self-discipline is not an easy thing to master. It’s difficult, painful, frustrating, and our brains seem to want to avoid it at all costs.

But it’s also the key behind most success, great or small.

Just do a quick Google search for quotes about self-discipline and you’ll be overwhelmed with how popular the topic is. Successful people from all disciplines and walks of life tout the magical effects of the wonder cure: self-discipline.