Self-discipline allows us to balance emotions with logical reasoning; we think first, and then act on our priorities. This process gives us the inner strength to overcome things like procrastination, laziness, and addiction—to instead pursue improvement, results, and success. By demonstrating self-discipline, we teach it to our children. Theodore Roosevelt said, “With self-discipline, most anything is possible.”

Persistence = Accomplishment
Amidst failure and setbacks, self-discipline equals self-control and intentionality with the present moment. We recognize our commitments and show up every single day. American author, Jim Rohn, wrote, “Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.”

Resist Temptation: Self-Discipline = Empowerment
There will always be temptations. Carnal impulses constantly lure us away from what we are supposed to be doing. Resistance to these temptations starts in the mind; if we allow our thoughts to wander, our imaginations can run wild. Stay focused. Prioritize goals. Make intentional choices. Stay on the right path. American motivational speaker, Les Brown, said, “The fact is, discipline is only punishment when imposed on you by someone else. When you discipline yourself, it’s not punishment but empowerment.”

Self-discipline helps us sustain against “shiny-object syndrome,” where folks make choices based on the feeling that the next opportunity is better than the last. To be self-disciplined is to be morally responsible for our actions and their consequences, for ourselves, and for the people we are responsible for. American writer, Lysa TerKeurst, wrote, “Compromise built upon compromise equals failure. Instead, resisting temptation allowed promise upon promise to be built up in my heart, and that creates empowerment.”

Live a Balanced Lifestyle
While self-discipline means we do what we’re supposed to do, it doesn’t mean we always have to be doing it. If we don’t take personal time, motivation might waver, and optimism could mutate into pessimism. Balance is important; remember to enjoy pressure-free time all to yourself—relaxing, indulging, and letting loose—while setting yourself straight when it comes time to get back to business.

Perhaps more so than other areas of our lives, self-discipline grants us the willpower needed for our commitment to diet and exercise. Having the discipline to drink more water keeps us hydrated, improving the effective functioning of our bodily processes. While fried and fast foods can leave us lethargic, healthy meals—rich in nutrients—give us the energy to keep going strong. Regular exercise improves muscle strength and cardiovascular health, helping us live longer lives.

Increased Focus
Self-discipline allows us to focus on the task at hand, putting first things first. With a clarity of purpose and a strategic plan, we remain focused on the pursuit of what matters most. Rather than making excuses or looking for reasons to quit, self-disciplined people keep their eye on the prize.

Stay Motivated When We Aren’t Seeing Results
It can be tough to stay motivated when we aren’t seeing results. If dissatisfaction or unhappiness creep in, self-discipline gives us the mental fortitude we need to honor the commitment we’ve made to ourselves.

Improve Relationships
Whether we take them for granted or recognize them for their vast importance, self-discipline keeps our relationships thriving. We make time for our friends, we listen to them, and we do not cancel plans at the last minute. When we are engaged in conversation, we aren’t distracted by our smartphones. Our friends recognize the commitment we make to the relationship and tend to reciprocate our love and support.

Achieve Goals
When we limit static and interference, the time we invest is more concentrated, allowing us to accomplish more with less. It is WAY easier to accomplish goals when we maintain a character of self-discipline. American author, John C. Maxwell, wrote, “Small disciplines repeated with consistency every day lead to great achievements gained slowly over time.”

Summary
One of the most important things we can instill in children is a habit of self-discipline. If we know the kind of life we want to lead, don’t make excuses—reserve time for what is important and do what needs to be done. Football coach, Lou Holtz said, “Without self-discipline, success is impossible, period.”

“All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize.” —1 Corinthians 9:25