14 Ways to Improve Your Self-Discipline

Greetings all!

I recently read a great article that said, “Self-discipline is not luck. It’s a matter of planning, taking action and asking for help." 

Image from https://www.flickr.com/photos/jiposhy/12055602675

The author provides 14 doable tips to boost your willpower - and they are all backed by scientific research! Here they are:

PLAN FOR SUCCESS AND…

1. Start on a Monday - 

Setting a date or event to mark the start of a new regimen can make you more likely to follow through on your goals.

MY NOTE: I would also like for that Monday to fall on the first of the month - but that happens very rarely so do not wait till then!

2. Write down your reasons for self-discipline - 

Affirmations strengthen self-control by focusing on higher values rather than on immediate impulses.

3. Visualize how you will benefit from your efforts - 

Your willpower lasts longer if you motivate yourself with the positive effects of self-control.

4. Prepare a plan of what you’ll say and do if the temptation arises - 

This is a proven technique taken from self-regulation strategies. For example, “If someone offers me dessert, then I’ll ask for fruit.”
MY NOTE: Does it mean I should refuse a chocolate-covered strawberry? 

Image from https://brightdrops.com/funny-life-quotes

5. Combine something you want to do with something you need to do - 

This forms good habits by pairing a “should” behavior (walking the dog) with a “want” behavior (gossiping with a friend).

6. Hide temptations in hard to reach places - 

Hiding candy from view makes you more likely to resist in indulging.

MY NOTE: This does work!!

7. Set an alarm for bedtime to get a full eight-hours of sleep - 

Sleep deprivation can impair the way your prefrontal complex works, which is the part of your brain where self-regulation takes place.

MY NOTE: I am a big fan of this!!

8. Ask friends to keep an eye out for bad habits you fall easily into - 

You are better at self-control when given repeated reminders.

MY NOTE: Something to remember during the next get-together!

WHEN TEMPTATION ARISES…

9. Weigh all your options before making a decision - 

Making an instant decision can result in poorer choices.

10. Drink hot water, lemon, and a tablespoon of honey - 

A fall in willpower can be tied to lower glucose levels.

MY NOTE: This one surprised me!

11. Avoid drinking alcohol - 

Alcohol can compromise self-discipline by reducing your ability to reflect on the consequences of your actions.

12. Use visual reminders - 

Leaving meaningful cues around your home can remind you to stay strong.

MY NOTE: However, be careful about leaving your exercise equipment in the middle of the room where you can easily trip over it!

13. Surround yourself with self-disciplined people - 

Undisciplined people wishing to improve gravitate towards people with more self-control – these people can form an effective support group.

AND REMEMBER…

14. Make sure your self-discipline is for you and not someone else - 

Your willpower is depleted when you try to please others instead of focusing on your own goals and desires.

SOURCE:

https://www.theladders.com/career-advice/14-ways-to-improve-your-self-discipline

What did you think? Drop me a line!