“Discipline = Freedom” – Jocko Willink
Think back for a moment to the goals you set for yourself. When you first set a goal, you’re super motivated. You’re working hard, you’re all in! And then after a few days or weeks or months, you start to feel less motivated. You don’t feel like getting out of bed as early. You don’t feel like practicing. You don’t feel like coming to karate or to the gym. Those are all normal feelings! Here’s the problem: Most people stop or quit when they aren’t motivated anymore.
But there’s something more important than motivation: Discipline.
Discipline means to do the right thing even when you don’t feel like it.
Discipline means you get out of bed when the pillow feels so warm & comfy.
Discipline means you exercise when you’d rather lay on the couch.
Discipline means you eat healthy food even when you’d rather eat a lot of junk food.
Discipline means you read a good book, instead of spending as much time on screens.
Is discipline hard? Yes.
But here’s the cool thing: Discipline = Freedom. The more disciplined you are, the more free you are. Now, that sounds weird! Discipline sounds like a bunch of boring rules that get in the way of my fun. Not at all! If you eat healthy food & exercise, you are more healthy & free. If you get your homework done first thing, instead of waiting until the last minute, you will be less stressed & more free. If you continue to show up to class, you’ll be a more Strong, Confident, and free person.
Discipline isn’t about being miserable and following all the rules. Discipline is about choosing to be your best each & everyday, especially on those days when you don’t feel like it. Because you know that when you are more disciplined, you will be more free.
