December 24, 2024
The words we use have a big impact on how we approach things.
Think in terms of WHO you want to become rather than WHAT you want to achieve.
If you’re struggling with discipline, read this.
How many days have you woken up thinking, “I just don’t feel like it”?
In those moments, you have two choices:
- wait for motivation, or
- do it anyway.
Choosing the latter option is what we call discipline.
Here are 6 tips to help you build self-discipline.
Identity
Your identity shapes your actions—focus on becoming, not just accomplishing.
Instead of saying “I’m trying to quit X,” say “I don’t do X.”
Rather than constantly chasing your goals, start building the person you need to be to achieve them.
Set Reminders
Keep your “why” front and center.
Remind yourself daily of your reasons for building discipline.
Write down your motivation and place it somewhere you’ll see it often.
Mine is so I can show up as my best self for my wife and kids.
Embracing Discomfort
Self-discipline is like a muscle—it needs to be built through practice.
Each time you face discomfort, you strengthen that muscle.
Every day, challenge yourself to do at least ONE thing outside your comfort zone.
A few ways to practice self-discipline:
- Take the stairs.
- Wake up earlier.
- Talk to strangers.
- Do the hard tasks first.
- Swap scrolling with reading.
Your Health
Proper inputs lead to the strongest outputs:
- Get 8+ hours of sleep.
- Eat live whole foods.
- Exercise regularly.
It’s much harder to stay disciplined when you are sleep-deprived and filled with crap.
Ideal Environment
Make discipline the path of least resistance.
- Put your workout clothes next to your bed the night before.
- Stock your fridge with healthy snacks and remove junk food.
Design your environment to make healthy choices automatic.
Accountability Partner
Fitness is easier with someone in your corner.
- Find a workout buddy to hit the gym with you.
- Hire a personal trainer to track your progress and keep you consistent.
- Share your goals with a friend who will check in on your habits.
When someone is counting on you, skipping becomes a lot harder.
Quick Recap: 6 Ways to Build Self-Discipline
- Focus on identity
- Set reminders
- Embrace the suck
- Take care of your health
- Design your environment
- Get an accountability partner
Conclusion
Self-discipline isn’t about relying on motivation—it’s about taking consistent action, no matter how you feel.
Start applying these tips today, and watch how small daily choices can make a real difference.
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