Do you want to master self-discipline but instead you are a master of procrastination? Welcome to the club!
Self-discipline is the art of getting things done even if you do not want to. And yes, it is an art (for me at least).
The lack of self-discipline is detrimental to success and progress. It sounds intense but it’s true.
Procrastination may be a huge contributor to the lack of self-discipline but today I want to start by giving you 6 ways to master self-discipline.
Edit (July 2024) – Check out this *new* post to discover 5 powerful habits to become the most disciplined person you know (#3 is mindblowing)!
This post might contain affiliate links which means I will get a small commission if you purchase an item through them.
1. Planning is your best friend
I cannot emphasize this enough. Planning is an essential tool to master self-discipline.
If I do not plan my week ahead of time, I will be procrastinating. It’s easier to get things done if you have a set schedule to guide you.
Self-discipline is a habit and so is procrastination. Let me explain what I mean by this.
You can only master self-discipline and kick procrastination to the curb if you get into the habit of doing your tasks. Read more about ‘The Art of Doing’ here!
“Does that mean I only need to plan my week ahead of time, Steph?” To that I say, “No, mam.”
You need to have your yearly, quarterly, monthly, weekly, and daily plans in your back pocket.
Here are some hot tips for planning:
- Plan your goals in more detail.
- Set smaller goals that build up to your ultimate goal.
- Put time stamps on those goals.
2. Get an accountability partner to help you master self-discipline
An accountability partner is a person, of your choosing, who will hold you responsible for achieving your goals.
Self-discipline is hard to learn. It cannot hurt to have someone assist you through it.
It is important to pick the right person though. Pick someone close to you who understands the importance of your dream.
I highly recommend that you select someone who wants an accountability partner themselves. That way you will motivate each other to commit.
Send a list of your goals and your game plans to each other.
At the end of each week, check in with your partner. Ask what they completed and what they neglected. Motivate them to improve and praise them for their successes.
Make this a weekly rule and you will be set up for success.
I’ve been hearing the term ‘dopamenu’ coming up lately so naturally I had to go down a rabbit hole (as I often …
It’s cozy season y’all! And what better way to kick it off than by decorating your home accordingly with these 34 stunning fall …
3. Don’t underestimate the power of visual representations
Humans are visual beings.
Writing down all your goals and plans is good but it’s not a long-term reminder of what you want.
There will be times when motivation WILL vanish. That is why you need to master self-discipline.
I find it helpful to have a constant reminder of why I’m putting hours into these projects. Therefore, I present to you: vision boards. This is my number one visual reminder.
Vision boards are a visual representation of your goals and dreams. Every year I make a new one with new ideas and plans. I keep it as my desktop background and phone screensaver to see it daily.
The fun thing about vision boards is that I can go back to previous versions and see what I have accomplished and how I’ve grown.
Another useful visual representation is to have sticky notes everywhere. Maybe you want to lose weight, then you can put positive and inspirational quotes on your mirror.
Use visual representations to fuel your motivation and encourage you to master self-discipline.
4. Give yourself awards for the little wins
This might sound cliche but there’s always truth to a cliche. It’s a great way to learn new habits.
For example, if you just finished writing a chapter of your novel or even something simpler like doing the laundry you can reward yourself. These can be things like a coffee break or watching one episode of your favorite series.
You will be surprised how much positive reinforcement will do to assist you.
5. Minimize distractions to master self-discipline
Distractions can be detrimental if you are in the process of mastering self-discipline. Steph, isn’t that an overreaction?
Nope.
Have you ever said to yourself, “I’m just gonna scroll on TikTok for 5 minutes.” Subsequently, you fall into the doom scroll and suddenly an hour passes.
Keep your distractions to a minimum.
Tips to minimize distractions
Use these few suggestions to help you master self-discipline:
- Keep your phone on silent.
- Put your phone in another room.
- Download an app that will help you stay off your phone (like Flora – Green Focus)
- Get your space ready before you start working. Get yourself water and everything you will need. That will prevent you from getting up and distracted.
- Work in a quiet space, if applicable.
- Read this article about lowering your screen time.
6. Focus on your purpose
What is your ‘why’?
There must be a reason why you are putting hours into a project or goal. There must be a reason why you are so eager to learn about self-discipline.
If there is no purpose there will be no reason to do any of this.
Focus on your purpose. Let it make you hungry for success. Use it as your driving force to keep going!
Maybe you are reading this and you have no idea what your purpose is… Well, you are in luck. I have 3 powerful tools that will help you find your purpose today! Follow this link to a new future and a free printable.
Conclusion
If I could master self-discipline you can too. Don’t let anything get in the way of your success story.
I went from a lazy procrastinating girl to a lazy self-disciplined girl.
Use these 6 easy ways to master self-discipline today!
Become part of the fam, I would love to hear about your journey.
Have an amazing week and stay reality-rooted!
Love, Steph ♥
