Motivational Quote – Discipline

Discipline is choosing between what you want now and what you want the most.  It will take you places motivation won’t

This morning I got up early and went for a run.  The intention was to run a 10 km.  I have been training for the Great North run.  To be honest I’ve not taken my training too seriously and have preferred jumping on a treadmill for 30 minutes instead of getting out and pounding the pavements.

So at 6am, after a swift espresso I flicked on MapMyRun and away I went.  5km was fine (that’s what I always run), 10 km a little bit more of a struggle.  I got to 12km and was ready to stop and walk the rest of the way home.  Afterall I’d done more than 10 km but I thought what if I could do a 15km?

Why am I telling you this?

Firstly it reminded me about the quote, which appears at the beginning of this post.  Discipline to me is very different to motivation.  Discipline is having the grit to tackle the hard things, the things that you really don’t want to do and having the determination to actually to them.  It can be literally ripping the plaster off!  Setting the alarm to get up early is part of the battle but actually getting out of bed is the hard part.

We focus so much on the end goal but forget those small wins along the way that get you to achieving that end goal.  So you want to get fit?  You join a gym to get fit, right?  Wanting to get fit is the motivation. Going to the gym a couple of times is riding on the wave of that motivation. But showing up maybe 3 times a week, maybe doing a workout that is challenging and hard takes discipline.  Not seeing results for weeks but still showing up takes discipline.

Discipline and My Mental Health

Secondly like many, and maybe this is why some of you have found Mind Matters NE, I’ve faced my own mental health challenges.  When things feel overwhelming, I set a personal goal—something manageable yet meaningful. This process requires discipline; it’s not just about setting the goal but also committing the time and effort, despite the lack of immediate rewards. Along the way, I celebrate small victories, staying focused on the process. Embracing discipline in this way helps me develop good habits that support me through tough times, proving that persistence and dedication can lead to genuine change.

I read an interesting article recently, ‘How Self Disciple can improve your whole life’ – published on the Bookshelf  If you have time I recommend you read it.

Key Benefits of Discipline for Mental Health

My 5 takeaways:

1. Discipline Builds Consistency: Discipline promotes routine adherence, reducing anxiety and stress by creating a predictable environment, enhancing mental well-

2. Discipline Leads to Long-Term Habits: Unlike fleeting motivation, discipline fosters sustainable healthy habits such as regular exercise and proper sleep, which are crucial for mental health.

3. Discipline Controls Impulses: By maintaining discipline, individuals can manage impulses more effectively, leading to healthier life choices and aiding in the management of addictions and mood swings.

4. Discipline Boosts Self-Esteem: Achieving goals through discipline enhances self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment, providing the positive reinforcement needed for mental health.

5. Discipline Aids in Overcoming Challenges: Discipline focuses the mind on solutions, fostering resilience and the ability to tackle and recover from mental health challenges more effectively.

If You Are Struggling, Help Is Available

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, remember that you are not alone. Numerous resources are available to help you manage and overcome your mental health challenges:

• Reach out to a Mental Health Expert: Consider signing up to see a psychologist or counsellor for expert advice.
• Get in touch with support systems: Friends, family or support groups are some of the people who could offer you an ear or a shoulder to lean on as well as advice.
• Use Crisis Resources: In an emergency, don’t be afraid to call 911 or mental health hotlines.

Free Consultation for 30 Minutes

Mind Matters NE is providing a free 30-minute consultation with one of our mental health professionals.

You can explore your choices for support and initiate a conversation about mental health in this safe area.

Take the first step toward better mental health in a safe and supportive environment. Don’t let another day pass in silence or confusion.

Begin with taking the first step towards achieving peace of mind. Schedule a free consultation with us today and we will help you get better mentally.