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If you’re on a quest for self-improvement, you’ve probably encountered the terms “self discipline” and “discipline”. They might seem interchangeable at first glance.
However, understanding the nuances between self discipline vs discipline can be life-changing on your journey toward a more fulfilling and productive life. This exploration into self discipline vs discipline explores the subtle differences that set them apart and how both can empower you to unlock your full potential.
Discipline: The External Force
Discipline, in its purest sense, involves adhering to a set of externally imposed rules, guidelines, or expectations. It’s about following a structured system. This is often driven by the fear of consequences or the desire for a specific result or external validation.
Examples of Discipline
- Showing up to work on time because company policy dictates it.
- Following a strict workout regimen created by a personal trainer.
- Sticking to a diet plan provided by a nutritionist.
The motivation in these scenarios comes from an external source — your boss, your trainer, or a pre-defined plan. Discipline plays a crucial role in maintaining order and achieving specific goals. However, it lacks the internal drive that fuels long-term transformation.
Self-Discipline: The Internal Compass
Now, let’s turn our attention to self-discipline. This is essentially about mastering the art of self-governance. This inner force involves regulating your behavior, resisting temptations, and making choices aligned with your values and goals.
What Makes Self-Discipline Unique?
Think about the man who consistently wakes up early to train, studies scripture daily, and prepares for any challenge – even when there’s no immediate need. His drive stems from a deep-seated commitment to his faith and fitness. The inherent reward of personal growth and spiritual strength embodies true self-discipline.
It’s this intrinsic motivation—the internal reward—that elevates certain pursuits beyond mere obligation and allows for personal growth and achievement that aligns with our authentic selves. Take intermittent fasting for example. Those who thrive while utilizing it as a tool, not a restrictive diet, tend to have the self discipline needed to make it part of their lifestyle.
Self Discipline vs Discipline: Exploring the Contradictions
Interestingly, retired Navy SEAL Rich Diviney points out a fascinating paradox in his book, The Attributes. Individuals can be incredibly self-disciplined without achieving significant external success. They might maintain meticulous daily routines or exhibit remarkable emotional control, but these actions don’t always translate to tangible accomplishments in the outside world.
Conversely, history offers examples of figures like Winston Churchill who lacked conventional self-discipline. Churchill, known for his less-than-regimented lifestyle, still possessed incredible discipline in his pursuit of strategic objectives during wartime.
This illustrates that while having self-discipline as a foundation for discipline is great, it’s not always a prerequisite for external achievement. However, self-discipline can benefit us in many ways.
For example, it promotes greater mental clarity and physical health. Self-discipline can even reduce potential obstacles caused by poor self-control. One could even argue that having a good grasp of self-discipline could also help people with procrastination.
This internal drive to take command of their day-to-day could even encourage people to take up new methods of self-betterment. They may even start using phone apps, or a helpful community as a resource.
Bridging the Gap: Finding the Balance
Instead of viewing this as an either/or scenario, strive for a balance between self discipline vs discipline.
Here’s a table to better illustrate these key differences:
| Characteristic | Discipline | Self-Discipline |
|---|---|---|
| Source of Motivation | External (rules, expectations, fear of consequences) | Internal (values, goals, personal drive) |
| Focus | Compliance, consistency, meeting external standards | Self-governance, resisting impulses, aligning with personal goals |
| Sustainability | Can be challenging to maintain without external pressure. | More likely to foster long-term habits and behavior change. |
By cultivating self-discipline, you create a powerful inner drive that propels you toward your goals.
Since I write a lot, I like to think about the writing process. Having self-discipline vs. discipline are two different approaches to writing.
Are you doing it just to hit a deadline, or because you genuinely enjoy using words to connect with an audience?
Imagine sitting down to write. If you rely solely on external deadlines, the quality may suffer as you rush to meet expectations. However, someone with a combination of self-discipline vs discipline is more inclined to hone their craft. They want to experiment and persevere until they create something truly exceptional that resonates with authenticity.
Wrapping Up
The distinction between self-discipline vs discipline highlights that true mastery lies in finding the sweet spot where external expectations align with our intrinsic values and aspirations. Embrace discipline as a stepping stone, a framework for progress, but always remember that cultivating robust self-discipline will be the compass that guides you toward lasting fulfillment and meaningful achievements in all areas of life.
FAQs about Self Discipline vs Discipline
What are the 3 types of self-discipline?
While there are various frameworks for understanding this complex trait, one approach is to look at self-discipline in the areas of thought, emotion, and action.
- Thought: Cultivating self-discipline in your thinking might involve challenging negative thoughts, practicing mindfulness, or actively focusing on solutions instead of dwelling on problems.
- Emotion: Mastering emotional self-discipline might involve learning how to manage stress healthily, responding to situations with emotional intelligence rather than impulsivity, or cultivating practices that promote inner peace and resilience.
- Action: Self-discipline in action might involve consistently following through on commitments, prioritizing important tasks, and resisting distractions that impede your progress toward goals.
What is the difference between self-regulation and discipline?
Think of self-regulation as a broader concept that encompasses various psychological processes involved in controlling one’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It is essentially the ability to manage your internal state. This allows you to respond appropriately to situations and pursue your objectives. Self-discipline, then, is a sub-component of this; it’s about the actions taken (often repeatedly) based on your ability to self-regulate.
