Musing on change. Step 3…discipline.
“Only the disciplined person will rise to his highest powers. The leader is able to lead others because he has conquered himself.” J. Oswald Sanders
Reading this quote, I found it stunning in it’s simplicity yet undeniable truth.
Leadership is one thing that not everyone might aspire. (Fine — I get that.)
But rising to the height of their potential and gifts, who doesn’t want that?
First, we have to intentionally search for and discover our dream. Believe in ourselves and our goal. And then discipline our actions in all areas.
* Working hard.
* Staying up late or waking up early.
* Saying “no” to unhealthy urges.
* Saying “no” to healthy urges that want to turn unhealthy and drag us downward.
* Working hard.
* Taking time to withdraw and rest when society screams to stay up and go.
* Pushing through things that don’t come naturally because they are integral to our goal.
* Focus on the positive. Avoid dwelling on fearful thoughts as if they hold an electric shock.
* Hard work. Did I mention that one?
Discipline is really a subset of thinking before acting. I hope all this intentionality gets less exhausting.
Change is hard work.
Hard work is a discipline.
Discipline is intentional action.
Oh dear. I’m going to stop now.
I thought discipline meant spanking. Who knew it had to do with hard work.
I’m so glad I just found your blog through Old Post Road blog. I chose the word “Prioritize” for my 2011 word to live out and finding your discipline posts will be a big help to me this year.
Thank you for your awesome list.
It is nice to meet you.
Lee Ann
Thanks Lee Ann. I’ll make hopping over to your blog a priority. Since prioritizing tasks is a daily challenge for me. Nice to meet you too.