Discipline: Why It Trumps Motivation … Every Time
When I sign up for an event, I´m motivated. The day of the event,
I´m super motivated. The time between the day I signed up and the actual event day there is rarely any motivation. Quite often there is the lack of it. What there is though is discipline.
Motivation is great when you can get it, but discipline is the key to making it happen.
It seems that we spend an exaggerated amount of time talking about motivation. Have a conversation about doing something challenging that requires training and time and one of the first things that will come up is how you have to stay motivated.
When it comes to the quest for personal growth, achievement, and success, motivation takes center stage. Discipline is an afterthought that deserves more recognition and should be elevated to the top of our understanding and conversations.
Herea are 5 things to consider in the Discipline vs Motivation Conversation:
1. Consistency is Key
Easy come, easy go! Motivation is fleeting. It hits you like a giant wave that surges with energy and enthusiasm, but once the wave is done, it goes back to the sea and you´re left wait for the next wave. Discipline is about consistency. It's the daily commitment to your goals and the unwavering determination to see them through, whether you're motivated or not. Discipline keeps you on track when motivation wanes, ensuring you make progress even on your off days.
2. Sustainable Progress
An explosion of energy that bursts into flames and your nothing but a crispy critter. Motivation often leads to intense bursts of activity followed by burnout. With motivation you're more likely to push yourself to the limit and then crash. Discipline, however, promotes gradual, sustainable progress. It encourages you to pace yourself, make steady efforts (my mantra - 1% progress every day), and build habits that lead to long-term success.
3. Overcoming Resistance
We need resistance for growth – regardless of the endeavor. We all know that inner voice telling us to procrastinate, avoid discomfort, or give in to distractions. Motivation might help you temporarily, but it won't always be there to rescue you. Discipline, on the other hand, equips you with the tools to face resistance head-on. It empowers you to do what needs to be done, even when it's challenging.
4. Building Resilience
Life is full of setbacks, failures, and obstacles. When you rely on motivation alone, these setbacks can be devastating, as they often lead to a loss of motivation. However, discipline fosters resilience. It teaches you to keep moving forward, even in the face of adversity. Instead of quitting when things get tough, disciplined individuals use setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow. Discipline is an internal force that you can harness and strengthen.
5. Achieving Mastery
Mastery in any field requires hours of deliberate practice and continuous improvement. Motivation may provide the initial spark, but it's discipline that keeps you on the path to mastery. Whether it's learning a musical instrument, mastering a sport, or excelling in your career, discipline is the foundation of expertise.
Motivation is that unreliable friend that rarely show´s up on time, but when he does your glad he´s there. Its has its place in our journey towards success, but it's discipline that truly carries us across the finish line. Discipline provides the stability, consistency, and resilience needed to overcome obstacles and reach our goals. So, instead of waiting for motivation to strike, focus on cultivating discipline in your life. It's the unwavering commitment to your aspirations that will ultimately lead you to the pinnacle of success.
Want to know more? Contact me: juan@wbhintl.com
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