What is self-discipline? Self-discipline is the ability to control yourself and to make yourself work hard or behave in a particular way without needing anyone else to tell you what to do.
There are four components of self-discipline;
Self Control
Motivation
Persistence
Goals
Let’s take a look at self control.
Self Control
Just before the holidays, someone introduced me to a grocery store in town that has a “special” aisle. You can find anything from tools to toys, underwear to work boots, yoga mats to winter coats for your pets, and everything in between. It’s a surprise from week to week what’s going to show up next.
Before I knew it, that “special” aisle was consuming a lot of my time and my money. Typically I went grocery shopping once a week. Now I found myself going there 2 or 3 times per week! Not only that but, now I was also driving to multiple locations on the same day to find an item I didn’t find at the first store.
This is not a good example of self control. I was spending over my weekly grocery budget amount. I was having to fill up at the gas station more often than usual, and I was so busy running around town it was easy to make excuses as to why I was neglecting my responsibilities at home.
When I realized what I had been doing I knew I needed to reevaluate my behavior and make changes. It was time to set some boundaries and rely on my old and faithful friend, self control.
Self control is what keeps us safe. It’s what helps us make good decisions. It’s what helps us achieve our goals. It’s what helps us be the best version of ourselves.
I’m happy to report that I’m back to once per week grocery shopping. I’ve walked down that “special aisle” several times now with my faithful friend by my side without making any impulse buys. Me and my bank account are winning.
See you next week for Self-Discipline Part 2 – Motivation.