What is self-discipline, and why is it important for motivation?
Self-discipline is the ability to work toward and achieve a goal in a systematic, organized manner. Self-discipline is important for the achievement of any goal since you cannot succeed without some degree of self-discipline, regardless of the talents and skills you possess. Self-discipline gives you the motivation to work steadily toward your goals until you attain them.
What are the benefits of self-discipline?
Since applying self-discipline increases your motivation, you experience several improvements in your work:
- Your productivity increases
Self-discipline increases your productivity in several ways. Applying self-discipline to your work helps you accomplish more with the resources you are given. Self-discipline also gives you the determination and willpower to maintain focus on a task until it is complete. In addition, self-discipline improves the quality of your work, which enables you to complete a task once instead of completing a task several times until it is done correctly.
Self-discipline also increases your productivity because it builds your confidence in and satisfaction with your work. Once you have successfully completed one difficult task or project, the next one will be less overwhelming, and you will be more likely to complete it successfully.
- Your problem-solving skills improve
Applying self-discipline will improve your problem-solving skills because it maintains your focus on the need to discover the root of a problem. Without self-discipline, your problem-solving efforts can be impaired by the emotions and opinions of others. Self-discipline prevents you from making a quick fix that only addresses part of the problem but can be accomplished without a great deal of effort.
- Your time management skills improve
Since self-discipline helps you maintain your focus, applying it to your work will improve the way you use your time. For example, a frequent cause of misused time at work is daydreaming. People who are self-disciplined will suppress any temptation to let their minds wander when they are supposed to be focusing on their work. Self-disciplined people provide themselves mental reminders to keep focused while working but may allow themselves to daydream when they take a break.
- You build a reputation for dependability
Since self-disciplined people are able to work toward and accomplish goals, they are able to meet their deadlines. As self-disciplined people consistently complete projects as scheduled, they will become known for dependability. When you can be counted on to complete your work, other people are appreciative and will want to work with you.
