Self-discipline entails putting aside what you'd like to do and concentrate on something more important and very needed. simply put, it recognizing the temptations, desire, and habits that could deduce you towards an easier path. but a leader calls upon the inner strength that makes them choose the harder, right and subsequently, most rewarding path. and that path involves sacrifices and commitments.
In Greek mythology, Odysseus was warned about the sirens. They were sea creatures that sang music so beautifully that it lured sailors to their death on the rocks around their island. To escape, discipline was required. Odysseus made his men plug their ears and then tied himself to the mast. by so doing, they successfully kept their ship on course.
You'd have to ignore a few things so as to get by.
Self-discipline is the same Choice. If you go with your emotions alone, rather than your inner strength and logic, your goals could run aground or get smashed among the rocks. Hence the need to exert will-power over your desires, and exercise self-control. Your self-discipline will be recognized and often imitated, even by those who lead.
So, what are those things that prevent us from conquering these emotions and choosing the right path?
One of the things people do is to give excuses as to why they aren't doing what they need to do...
Why don't I exercise?
Reason : oh, that's because I haven't the time.
Why do I drink too much?
reason: I suppose in under a lot of stress. you've no idea what I've been through lately.
Why don't I get up earlier?
reason: I work do hard all day, so it's okay to wake up late.
It's all self-justification to let things slide when you know you shouldn't.
If we cannot be truthful to ourselves, how the hell can we be trusted to lead others? how truthful can we become then?
The undisciplined are slaves to Moods, Appetites, and Passions.
Leadership is about choosing the thoughts, plans, and actions that would lead to improvements. it is denying the easy gratifications that surround us and keeping true to ourselves goals. to demand self-discipline of others is to demonstrate self-discipline first. Else, what the hell are we all here for?