Discipline means doing it anyway.
You're tired. You're busy. It looks like it's going to rain. It would be easier to stay home. It's not going to be fun. It's not a big deal. It's the perfect excuse. Unless, of course, you are disciplined. Because discipline means doing it anyway.
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Just that you do the right thing. The rest doesn't matter. Cold or warm. Tired or well-rested. Despised or honoured.
MARCUS AURELIUS, MEDITATIONS
That's what makes discipline, indeed any virtue, so impressive. The person does what they need to do anyway. Even though it's going to be rough. Even though it might not make a big difference. Even though no one will notice.
We're all capable of this. You just have to choose it. Decide that, right now, things are going to be different, and that this is the time you stop waiting for life to change and take control.
TRY THIS TODAY
Pick the one thing you're most likely to skip today because you're tired or busy. Do it first.
Much of what I've learned about Stoicism comes from Ryan Holiday. Find more of his writing at dailystoic.com and ryanholiday.net.
While I have edited much of this content, there are some cases where I have taken Ryan Holiday's words directly. I've included them because I think they are powerful and will be helpful for you. They are also helpful for me, and I've put them here so I can learn and understand more myself.
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