Self Regulation and Self-Discipline
Strengthening your self regulation and self-discipline is very powerful because it is liberating. When you practice self regulation you are no longer a victim of your emotions and your external circumstances. Imagine being able to say No! to that extra dessert. Imagine managing your money, being financially free, and even wealthy. Imagine having control over your mood and the ability to be happy whenever you desire. Freedom like this is possible if you are willing to put forth the effort and learn the life skills it takes to become the master of your own destiny.
If you are not currently self-disciplined, and most people are not, then this is certainly one of the toughest ongoing battles you'll ever fight. It is much easier just sit back and watch your life unfold than it is to be intentional in your decisions and pursue your passions. It is much easier but it is not nearly as rewarding! If you are to succeed, you must begin with a deep sense of conviction. You must be convinced that success is inevitable and that you are eventually going to win the daily battle of self-discipline.
Developing good habits and self-discipline is just like any other skill in life. At first it will be hard, but the more you practice the stronger and easier it will become. In a world that is made up of largely undisciplined and lazy people, having strong will power will give you an enormous advantage in life.
Don't let people ridicule you for persisting in your good habits. They are just trying to manipulate you to their level. You will soon leave them in the dust. People that try to eat healthy, spend their money wisely, or attend self-improvement seminars are often derided as being fanatics or eccentrics. Those that criticize are just feeling guilty because they lack the resolve to do what you do. Simply ignore them and proceed with your personal development plan.
One thing that can help you maintain your self regulation is to keep your eye on the big picture. Keep in mind that each small task accomplished is moving you toward your long term goals. You might read your long term goals aloud every day or you might keep reminders of them in conspicuous places so that you are never allowed to forget exactly why you are doing what you are doing.
So, sit down and think for a moment about what habits you have and where you lack self regulation. What do you do well and what do you need to improve? What bad habits are hindering you? It is your life and your responsibility to govern yourself. You are the master of your ship. Whilst self regulation may require a lot of hard work and a strong will power, eventually the more you discipline yourself to resist the temptation of laziness, the more your resolve will strengthen, the more you will accomplish, and in turn, you will gain momentum towards making more decisions and taking even more action.
