5 Tips for Gaining SELF DISCIPLINE
Is Self Discipline something we’re born with or can it be learned?
Self-Discipline is one of those skills we're not all born with. For some, it comes naturally. They have no problem setting themselves guidelines and goals, and following through with every single one. For others, however, figuring out how to be more disciplined in their daily life is a daunting prospect- how to begin, how to change old habits, how to create new ones, and how to commit to the promises made to oneself- it can feel overwhelming, to say the least. But, like most skills in life, we can work on it if we want to- and, it's not as hard as it sounds.
Here 5 tips to improve your self discipline:
Create habits that are unique to you.
Let's say you really want to get more toned and in better shape. More often than not, it's always a good idea to start one step at a time, so you don't feel too overwhelmed. Getting started is half the battle. And, once you've made that first step, and you've had that first gratifying, albeit sweaty, accomplishment under your belt- all you have to do is add a little more every day.
You know yourself better than anyone. You know your strengths, your challenges, all of your own little quirks. So, rather than fight against what you're really like, create new habits that reflect who you are and what you value. If you're just not a morning person, and never will be- that's ok. Your habits don't have to be exactly like anyone else's- don't force yourself to fit a mold that feels all wrong.
Take note of your own ebb and flow of energy throughout the day. Find your daily peaks and valleys of energy, and use that to your advantage. Maybe you're always the first one up and ready to greet the day with a smile. Or, perhaps you're the night owl that comes alive and finds inspiration when the sun goes down. It doesn't matter. Your daily routines and habits should always mirror your priorities, whatever they are.
Set specific times to dedicate to your pursuits. Then, when the time comes, you can step up to the plate and follow through.
Whatever your updated routine will be, stick to it. Everyone has their own way of scheduling a day. Once you've found a routine you're comfortable with- stick to it! Hold yourself accountable, you are the only one in control of your life. So, take small steps at first, and keep adding to it. Little by little, you'll form new habits- habits you've created that are unique to your own lifestyle and give you a sense of overall stability.
Get rid of temptations and/or distractions.
You'll end up procrastinating, trust me. It happens to the best of us.
With that in mind, if you know you spend too much time on your phone (something I think we've all been guilty of from time to time), then put it in another room until you've finished your tasks. Again, you're in charge here- you can set your own rules, but you still have to adhere to them.
This isn't rocket science. If you know you're easily distracted and tempted to turn your attention toward unproductive tasks (a.k.a. "stalling")- then remove the distraction. Or, if you have to, remove yourself. If getting work done at home is hard because something shiny is always glinting at you- then leave the house. Go to a quiet place where you can focus.
Have a Goal.
Set clear, realistic daily goals.
If you don't have a goal, you'll end up continually floating in limbo, without knowing where you are going. By setting smaller daily goals, you'll be able to complete all of your tasks.
Keep your daily list in a tangible form, write it down, and put it where you can easily see it. Consider writing how long each task will take. Simple practices like this get you into habits that will increase your efficiency and aid in time management.
Will power.
You have to want it! No one is going to serve it to you on a gold platter. Nothing you want in life is going to magically fall in your lap. You've got to want it, you've got to put in the effort, you've got to take action.
Your mind is your most powerful tool. If you set your mind to something, if you are fully committed, if you believe you can reach your goals- nothing can stand in your way. Be firm with yourself. If it means so much to you, tell yourself, "no more excuses, I can do this, get it done."If you stumble, forgive yourself.
Acknowledge the reason why you couldn't finish the task. Take responsibility for it, but then move on. Keep moving forward, one day at a time, one foot in front of the other. There's no reason to beat yourself up over something that went wrong. And, anger only sets you back and makes you frustrated. Learn from your mistakes so you can improve, so you can grow, but keep going. Get re-focused on your goal and never lose sight of it.
Still Need Help?
If you find yourself feeling short of inspiration, remember you can download the Get Ballerina Fit workout. What helps you the most when fatigue sets in? Let me know in the comments below, so we can all learn from each other. Let’s keep dancing!
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Of course I’m here for you, so if you have any question or want to start a conversation, feel free to leave a message below or send me an email to hello@lazydancertips.com :)
Love
Alessia