Self-discipline is an antidote to low productivity
“Self-discipline is the magical power that makes you virtually unstoppable.” ~Dan Kennedy, business success guru and author
Well, I have to admit that most of us are easily distracted. We are almost ready to be derailed from our work plans by any shiny object that passes our radar!
This is especially true for me if it’s something I really don’t want to do or if it feels like hard work! (This can lead to procrastination and avoidance if not addressed.)
Many of us know what we should do, but have little self-discipline to make it happen. Instead, we use labels like I’m too busy or I didn’t have time instead of supporting and committing to our intent. It is a form of internal laziness that prevents us from doing things.
I regularly see examples of this in the business world. Here are some examples:
- Individuals who can’t seem to get to meetings on time.
- Arriving late and unprepared for prebooked coaching sessions (I make people rebook!).
- An entrepreneur who never stops dedicating himself to marketing because there is always something else to do first.
Latecomers are also often unprepared for work. This lack of focus and attention is a waste of time, because they have to catch up before giving any value.
I’ve noticed that a common theme for many people with time management issues is a lack of self-discipline.
Okay, I admit it, some days I feel secretly lazy (especially when it’s sunny!). It’s a challenge because I wake up with an internal struggle to force myself to get up and do things. It’s hard work challenging my lazy self to get on with what needs to be done. Sometimes I prefer to sit down and have a quiet day at home.
After all, I am the boss and I can do whatever I want! I also have these secret lazy feelings for staying in shape, whether it’s walking or going to the gym (I LOVE it once I do it!).
Rather than allow this to take over, I have had to become extremely self-disciplined. Self-discipline is a powerful antidote to procrastination.
Without self-discipline, your principles of thought and self-management are inconsistent and you will be easily distracted.
Self-discipline neutralizes laziness and gives you the ability to get things done and get them right the first time. Excuses and old habits fall away as you move forward, take control and get things done.
Here’s how to encourage self-discipline:
- Make a weekly plan and determine in advance what you want to achieve. This helps you stay focused and feel in control of what needs to be done. Over time you can feel the urge to make things happen. Stick to the plan, stick to it! Remind yourself what is important.
- Appear! At the scheduled time and be prepared and ready to work. Yes… It’s that simple… It’s common sense, but NOT always common practice. This includes keeping ALL the appointments you make with yourself!
- Meet your deadlines and commitments. This will only make you more successful. More opportunities will start to present themselves and others will be attracted to you because you are making things happen. Success breeds success.
- Do it even when you don’t feel like it. Self-discipline requires 100% commitment. It’s not just a fair weather thing! It takes great self-discipline for productivity to invest energy and time into your intentions. This investment pays off every time. Be aware of those lazy voices in your head and challenge them EVERY time!
- Take deliberate action. Take action and make things happen. Every day do something consciously towards your Intention – Small steps. Be deliberate in your thoughts and behaviors. This will inspire you to make different choices and create new clothes. Get underway!
All successful people have self-discipline. It is a necessity that requires continuous work every day.
Self-discipline is an option that allows you to chart your own path and create value by doing things!
There is a big difference between someone who talks about it and someone who actually gets things done!
Which one are you?