Written by: Grace Jones, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
In the world of self-improvement and personal development, the mantra of "stay motivated" echoes far and wide. From inspirational quotes to motivational speakers, the emphasis on finding that elusive burst of inspiration to fuel our pursuits is ingrained in our collective mindset. However, what if the key to building resilience and achieving long-term success lies not in motivation but in the often-underestimated power of discipline?
Discipline, the steadfast commitment to a set of principles or actions, may lack the immediate allure of motivation, but it proves to be a stalwart companion on the journey to resilience. In this article, I want to explore the reasons why discipline trumps motivation and how it could transform the way you face challenges.
Motivation is a fickle friend
It can show up like a whirlwind, full of zest and energy propelling you forward with enthusiasm, only to disappear as quickly as it came, because for all its initial power, it is notoriously fleeting. Relying solely on motivation can leave you stranded when the going gets tough, making it an unreliable friend in the face of adversity.
Consider a New Year's resolution to get fit. Motivation might get you to the gym for the first few weeks, but when the initial excitement wanes, discipline becomes the force that keeps you lacing up your trainers, day after day. The discipline to stick to a workout routine, even on those days when motivation is elusive, is what transforms aspirations into lasting habits.
Discipline: The unsung hero of resilience
Resilience, often defined as the ability to bounce back from setbacks, is a skill that enables people to weather life's storms. It allows them to cope rather than crumble – to become better rather than bitter. Discipline, unlike motivation, is a constant companion during challenging times. It provides the structure and routine necessary to navigate difficulties methodically.
Imagine a student facing a demanding academic year. Motivation might get them through the first few weeks of intense study, but when fatigue sets in and challenges mount, it's discipline that ensures they stick to a study schedule, consistently putting in the necessary effort. It's this regular and persistent action that builds the mental strength to keep going.
The habitual nature of discipline
Discipline, unlike motivation, is a habit. It thrives on routine and consistency, becoming a part of your character. Developing discipline involves cultivating a mindset that prioritizes long-term goals over momentary desires. It's about making choices that align with your objectives, even when faced with the distraction by a bright shiny object, or the temptation of immediate gratification.
Consider the discipline of a successful entrepreneur. While motivation might have sparked the initial business idea, it's discipline that sustains the day-to-day grind. The ability to adhere to a strategic plan, meet deadlines, and overcome setbacks is what propels them forward on the path to success.
Discipline breeds self-reliance
Relying on motivation often involves seeking external stimuli—a powerful quote, an inspiring speech, or a motivational video. On the other hand, discipline is an internal force. It comes from a sense of responsibility and commitment to oneself and one's goals. This self-reliance is a cornerstone of resilience.
Think of an artist facing a creative block. Motivation might come from external sources, but it's the discipline to sit down and work through the challenges that ultimately leads to breakthroughs. The reliance on internal drive, rather than external motivation, is what allows individuals to persist in the face of obstacles.
Embracing discipline for the year ahead
With 2024 stretching before you, it's a perfect time to reflect on the role of discipline in your life. Rather than relying on those fleeting bursts of motivation that accompany resolutions (if you make them), committing to cultivating discipline as the driving force behind your actions this year will have a much greater impact on your overall levels of resilience.
5 simple steps to increased discipline
Set clear goals: Define your long-term objectives and break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. Discipline thrives on clarity, so design a roadmap to support consistent action.
Create a routine: Never underestimate the power of a habit. Establishing a routine builds discipline by introducing predictability into your life. Whether it's a morning ritual or a structured work schedule, routine is your friend.
Embrace accountability: Share your goals with a trusted friend, family member, or even better a coach. Accountability is a powerful motivator, and knowing that someone you respect is not only aware of your objectives but is committed to checking in on your progress regularly, can positively impact your dedication to getting stuff done.
Learn from setbacks: Discipline is not about perfection. Rather, it’s about resilience in the face of setbacks. When you encounter obstacles, look at them as opportunities to learn, and then adjust your approach, and become flexible and creative – two key qualities of the resilient person.
Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge and celebrate the small victories along the way. Discipline becomes more ingrained when we recognize and appreciate our progress, no matter how slow.
A year of discipline and resilience?
What will this year look like if you shift your focus from the transience of motivation to the lasting strength of discipline. Building resilience requires a steadfast commitment to your goals, even when motivation wanes. It's the discipline to show up, day after day, that transforms aspirations into achievements.
Make this your year of discipline—a year where your daily choices align with your long-term vision and you embrace the challenges, knowing that it's the consistent and disciplined effort that not only helps you achieve but paves the way for resilience.
Here's to a year of resilience, powered by the engine of discipline.
Grace Jones, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Grace Jones is a former freelance IT Consultant who is very familiar with the stress of working in demanding environments. Ten years ago she chose to study hypnotherapy to better understand how our thoughts influence our behaviour, habits and results. She went on to create the RISE Resilience system, designed to help people understand and effectively manage the increasing levels of stress, anxiety and burnout that so many are struggling with in this post-COVID world. Today she is an enthusiastic speaker, trainer and breathing coach ‒ "Training your brain to work for you..."
