Do you want to master self-discipline but instead find yourself mastering procrastination? Welcome to the club!**
Self-discipline is the art of getting things done, even when you don’t feel like it. And yes, it really is an art (at least for me).
Lack of self-discipline can be detrimental to success and progress. It may sound intense, but it’s true.
While procrastination is a major contributor to the lack of self-discipline, today I want to share
6 ways to master self-discipline
1. Planning is Your Best Friend
I cannot emphasize this enough: planning is essential to mastering self-discipline.
If I don’t plan my week in advance, I find myself procrastinating. It’s much easier to get things done when you have a set schedule to guide you. Self-discipline, like procrastination, is a habit. Let me explain what I mean.
You can only master self-discipline and kick procrastination to the curb if you build the habit of doing your tasks regularly. Read more about *The Art of Doing* here!
Does that mean I only need to plan my week ?
To that, I say: No, ma’am.
You need to have yearly, quarterly, monthly, weekly, and daily plans in your back pocket.
Here are some tips for planning:
– Plan your goals in detail.
– Set smaller goals that build up to your ultimate goal.
– Add time stamps to those goals.
2. Get an Accountability Partner
An accountability partner is someone who will hold you responsible for achieving your goals.
Self-discipline is tough to learn, but having someone to assist you makes it easier. Pick someone close to you who understands the importance of your dream. I highly recommend choosing someone who also wants an accountability partner. This way, you can motivate each other.
Here’s how to make it work:
– Send a list of your goals and game plans to each other.
– At the end of each week, check in on progress. Ask what they completed, what they neglected, and motivate them to keep improving.
Make this a weekly rule, and you’ll be set up for success.
3. Don’t Underestimate the Power of Visual Representations
Humans are visual creatures. Writing down your goals is great, but it’s not enough for long-term motivation. When your motivation fades (and it will), self-discipline will keep you going.
This is why I love vision boards. They’re my constant visual reminder of why I’m putting in the effort. Every year, I create a new vision board filled with fresh ideas and plans, which I keep as my desktop background and phone screensaver to see daily.
Another useful visual tool? Sticky notes. Place them where you’ll see them often—like on your mirror—reminding you of your goals and dreams.
4. Reward Yourself for the Little Wins
This might sound cliché, but it’s true. Rewarding yourself is a great way to build new habits.
For example, if you finish writing a chapter of your novel (or even something simpler like doing the laundry), reward yourself with something small—a coffee break or one episode of your favorite show. You’ll be surprised at how positive reinforcement can help you master self-discipline.
5. Minimize Distractions
Distractions are detrimental when trying to master self-discipline.
Isn’t that an overreaction? Nope.
Have you ever said, “I’ll just scroll TikTok for 5 minutes,” only to fall into the doom scroll and lose an hour?
Here are a few tips to minimize distractions:
– Keep your phone on silent.
– Put your phone in another room.
– Use apps that block distractions (like Flora – Green Focus).
– Prepare your workspace in advance so you won’t need to get up.
6. Focus on Your Purpose
What is your “why”?
There must be a reason you’re working so hard on your project or goal. If there’s no purpose, there’s no motivation. Focus on that reason and let it drive you forward!
Not sure what your purpose is? You’re in luck! I’ve got 3 powerful tools to help you discover your purpose today. Click *here* for a free printable and a new future.
Conclusion
If I could master self-discipline, so can you. Don’t let anything stand in the way of your success story.
I went from a lazy procrastinator to a (still somewhat lazy) self-disciplined person.
Start using these **6 ways to master self-discipline** today! I’d love to hear about your journey.
**Have an amazing week, and stay reality-rooted!**
