The practice of teaching someone to obey rules or a code of behavior using punishment to correct disobedience is called disciplining. Training someone such as a child to follow the rules using punishment to correct disobedience is how many parents raise their children.
Self-discipline, on the other hand, is having the ability to control one’s feelings and behaviors even when it is difficult. Self-discipline can help a person overcome their weaknesses in the pursuit of a goal or accomplishment. Self-discipline is a character trait that can lead you to greatness.
As an adult, with a plan and specific tasks to complete, we must be disciplined to see those tasks through. This is not a form of punishment but rather a character trait that is key to our success.
Discipline is required by all people. However, there are times when we are not at our best and we find ourselves far from the norms in life. In the biblical book of Hebrews, the writer cautions us with these words, “For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.”
Discipline requires training. Once an individual has been trained for a particular task, occupation, etc., they should discipline themselves as a code of behavior. Being disciplined is one of the most important personality traits in life.
Self-discipline refers to a set of rules and regulations which are to be followed while undergoing any task or activity. It is a way of being honest, hard-working, motivated and encouraged while doing any task.
It is paramount that people be disciplined to their calling or task to be successful in life. Wealth and connections alone cannot explain one’s success. It is born out of a combination of personal discipline and situational creativity. Those who are self-disciplined can accomplish great things. They are ordinary people who do extraordinary things in life because they are self-disciplined.
So, as you pursue your lifelong goals be disciplined with a determination and willpower that goes beyond the norm. And Never Give Up! Never Give Up! Never Give Up!
By Dr. Walter Ghosten
chaplain@lhp.net
