What do you really want?

It takes self-discipline to accomplish your dreams.  If you want to lose weight, you must discipline your mind and mouth.  If you want to change your career or job, it takes time and effort on your part to prepare for the new possibilities to become your reality with focus and determination. 

Each one of us has the power within us to create the change we want to experience yet so many fall short of their dreams because they lack discipline and tenacity.  Discipline for me is defined as the training of my mind, body and spirit to perform in such a way as to create my desired outcome.   I realize that it is easier said than done yet I know it is doable because I have done it.  When I want to lose 10 lbs, I find it impossible if my mind –body and spirit are not in alignment.  It is only when I have become steadfast in my determination and purpose can I hold my ground and win my battle.

I don’t like to be given rules and alternatives, so I don’t use that approach.  I don’t like feeling as though I am sacrificing something to gain something else, so I do not entertain that course of action.  I have found that only when I have totally and completely lined my thinking skills, my mind with my physical being—feeling into the end result, that I am able to convincingly get my spirit to shore me up and give me the strength needed to accomplish my task. 

Your approach may be completely different from mine and that is okay.  I do not believe that there is only one way of fulfilling your dreams or goals yet I do believe that when you find the right formula for you, nothing will stop you from accomplishing what you really want.  

Motivation is another word that you might use to define how you expect to utilize self-discipline;  for a highly motivated person is a disciplined person.  They know what they want and how to accomplish it within the time frame of their goals and vision.  I have heard some people say that they want to change their lives yet they lack the motivation and discipline to get off the couch and seek new ways that will get the job done.  They are easily distracted and sidetracked with ideas or pursuits that have little value or purpose. 

When I was a young student, I needed to exhibit strong discipline to get my work done and graduate.  Distractions were all over the place.  My peers wanted to go out and party or play cards all night long but I was not able to indulge in those pleasures because I needed to study.  My brain didn’t absorb as quickly as some of my friends and I understood my shortcomings. 

That mindset has helped me stay focus during my lifetime.  I know when I can be frivolous and carefree and when I must stay focused.  That realization has served me well. 

If you find that you have a difficult time staying focused or disciplined, look at where your blocks are and why they are standing in the way.  Being mindful and fully alert is helpful; don’t run from self-reflection but instead, welcome it into your daily life.  A good question to ask yourself is:  “How is my lack of self-discipline counteracting what I really want?   What is it costing me and is that what I truly hope to achieve in this lifetime?  Only you know the answer to those questions. 

I hope you find what you are truly seeking.

  

Joan Marie Ambrose

Author, Creative Writer, Motivational Speaker