Motivation < Discipline

Motivation < Discipline

Something that has had a profound impact on my life in terms of productivity and holistic progress is understanding the roles of motivation and discipline. It is a fascinating subject which when digested really can alter mindsets and launch you on a positive and progressive trajectory towards self-development. 

Motivation can be described as the “desire to complete a task”. Individuals can feel motivated to workout, as an example. This motivation often stems from previous progress or by watching something that inspires individuals to improve themselves. Motivation compartmentalised means motive. When somebody has a motive, they have a reason. Motivation typically stems from two different places: intrinsic and extrinsic.

Intrinsic motivation can be more easily understood as the motivation that comes from within us, such as an internal desire to complete a task.

Extrinsic motivation is motivation that comes from external sources such as the articles we read, videos we watch or people we see and aspire to be more like.

Isn’t it funny though how very often we find it so difficult to complete the task we know we should be completing. We do actually have the motive or the reason, but following through on the act becomes a real sticking point. We oftentimes become frustrated with ourselves and the ebbing flow of motivation that never really seems to stick around. If we were dependent only on our motivation, not a lot would get done.

So how is it that some people are consistently able to turn up? Are some people genetically gifted with higher levels of motivation? The answer lies in discipline.

Discipline can be defined as the ability to exercise true self-control. Discipline is knowing that when something needs doing, it gets done. This is driven by the bigger picture. The goals and outcomes that you set drive you towards becoming the person you envisage. An idealised self. Very often, the menial everyday tasks that most people do not feel like doing are the tasks that, with discipline, cultivate character, consistency and compounding development towards this improved and idealised self.

Next time you question why you should do a certain task, ask yourself is this required to make progress within the day? Is this task taking me ever so slightly towards my goals? Will the me of tomorrow, thank the me of today for completing this task? Or will I look back in disappointment that just because I wasn’t motivated to do it, I didn’t? The choice is yours. Be honest and accountable. Exercise your discipline and reap the rewards.