Discipline Yourself: A Path to Success for Students and Parents
- Aug 21, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 28, 2024
One of the things that is required to be consistently successful is that of being disciplined. It must be noted that discipline is more than just following rules; it is about mastering the art of self-control and taking charge of your life. Bob Proctor once said, “You have to discipline yourself. That is the ability to give yourself a command and then follow it.” It sounds simple, but how many times have we set goals or given ourselves instructions, only to fall short in following through?
The truth is, self-discipline is a skill that needs to be cultivated, especially for secondary school students who are navigating the challenges of education and personal growth.
To discipline yourself means to have the ability to make decisions, stick to them, and see them through, regardless of the obstacles that come your way. It is about being definite with what you want and pursuing it with tenacity. Eric Thomas puts it best: “When you want to succeed as bad as you want to breathe, then you’ll be successful.” This essence of discipline requires not just a powerful desire, but also the willingness to step out of your comfort zone.
Many times, we set goals or give ourselves commands, but fail to follow through. Why does this happen? The answer often lies in our comfort zones. We naturally gravitate towards what feels safe and familiar, but true growth occurs when we push ourselves into uncomfortable territory. It is in these moments of discomfort that we develop resilience and the strength to overcome challenges.
One of the key components of self-discipline is establishing a daily routine. We've seen and heard many success stories of students having been awarded 8 or 9 CSEC subjects and more in one sitting. Why is that so? This is because they had a routine. Having a routine provides structure and consistency, which are essential for achieving your goals. Whether it is dedicating time each day to study, exercise, or plan, sticking to a routine helps you build the habits necessary for success. It is not just about doing the same thing every day; it is about making intentional choices that align with your goals.
I had a routine when I attended secondary school and yes I attained 9 subjects. My routine like Jesse Ramkalawan who attained 11 CSEC, and many others who went before us had a "strict study routine months before". Not days or weeks but months and for some, two years and more. What type of routine do you have? Is it one that will allow you to be successful?
Discipline also requires a plan. When you do not have a clear plan you can lose motivation and become distracted. A plan of action is your blueprint, which allows you to build for success. With a plan in place, you know what steps to take each day to move closer to your goals. It is not enough to have a vague idea of what you want; you need to be specific and deliberate in your actions. Yes and all this is a part of your routine.
Another crucial aspect of self-discipline is keeping the vision of your completed goal in front of you at all times. This vision serves as a constant reminder of why you are working so hard. It is what keeps you motivated when things get tough and helps you stay on track when distractions arise.
So as Norman Vincent Peale once said, “Plan your work, and work your plan. Lack of system produces that I'm swamped feeling!.” By holding your vision close, you maintain focus and drive, even when the journey is difficult.
Self discipline is indeed a journey. One which myself included has been walking. As a life coach with a background in education, I am here to help you or your child stay on track, build routines, and hold onto that vision of success. Whether you are a student striving for academic excellence or a parent looking to support your child’s growth, I am here to provide the guidance and accountability you need.
Book a call with me today to get started on your path to success. Let us work together to make your goals a reality. Remember, discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment. Let us cross that bridge together.