Short-sighted individuals value the “small” freedoms, those trivial, fragmented desires. In contrast, visionaries pursue “big” freedoms, the expansive liberties that bring true fulfillment. It is the self-disciplined who are poised to lead a beautiful life. When one lacks self-discipline, their actions are often swayed by habits and external temptations, making it challenging to pursue their genuine desires. Psychologists have observed a pattern: The initial stage of self-discipline is excitement, followed by a painful middle phase, and finally, a rewarding enjoyment in the latter stage.
However, many linger too long in the painful phase, mistaking this discomfort for self-discipline. When self-discipline becomes a part of your approach to life and daily routine, it brings inner peace and enjoyment, as it evolves into a natural habit.
American psychologist M. Scott Peck emphasized in his works that self-discipline is the primary solution to life’s problems. Without it, overcoming obstacles and difficulties becomes nearly impossible. It’s not that only the exceptional are self-disciplined; becoming self-disciplined can lead to excellence. Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, believed that freedom stems from confidence, and confidence from self-discipline. His structured early mornings and minimalist lifestyle kept him focused and away from worldly distractions, enabling him to bring his innovative ideas to life.
How do we achieve self-discipline?
1. Set goals and make self-discipline into a habit
Choose and set some absolute, non-negotiable principles for yourself. Refrain from wasting energy on endless self-conflict. Dedicate yourself to completing these goals wholeheartedly. Avoid making excuses for indulgence; be strict with yourself, allowing discipline to become a habit and a principle. Indulgence causes one to slip down like a mudslide, while discipline makes one climb up inch by inch.
2. Complete one goal at a time, preserve your energy
Avoid setting too many goals simultaneously; on the path of self-improvement, this will lead to failure. For example: In your quest to pass a foreign language exam, if you decide to read 100 books in the target language while also attempting to watch copious movies without subtitles, this will eventually deplete your perseverance. Keep in mind that perseverance is like a muscle; it tires. Accepting too many challenges usually leads to the inability to persist. When you expend too much energy focusing on completing one thing and immediately diving into the next without reserving time to rest and recharge, fatigue results. Preserve your energy to last the distance.
3. Break challenges into small, manageable goals
Many fantasize about achieving success in one step or reaching their goals overnight. As the saying goes, a block of ice isn’t formed overnight. When a task requires significant effort for an extended period, many tend to give up halfway. In such situations, learn to break down the task into several smaller ones and complete each step progressively — take it slow and be steady. The key is to break down the big goal into manageable, incremental, smaller goals that become realistically achievable.
4. The art of self-discipline will inevitably become a path to one’s freedom in life
Contemporary thinking seems to favor instant gratification — life is short and should be enjoyed now! Seize the day and live in the moment. Over time, people have come to realize that every undisciplined act brings greater pain. For instance, long-term indulgence in excessive eating, drinking, and lack of exercise dramatically affects one’s health. Staying up late to play computer games or endlessly scrolling through the smartphone can result in lethargy experienced the next day. Living each day without set goals and merely existing can lead to losing direction and increasing emptiness. Avoid becoming a slave to desires; self-discipline allows you to live a more meaningful life.
Translated by Katy Liu, edited by Maria
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