If this sounds familiar, it’s time to distance
yourself from your technology. It may be hard to separate yourself from your devices, but
overcoming this common obstacle may be your first big step toward a more disciplined lifestyle.
7. Operant Conditioning In the 1930s, psychologist B.F. Skinner developed
a reliable method of controlling our behavior. This technique, known as operant conditioning,
uses a system of rewards or consequences to influence how we behave. Operant conditioning
sounds like a clinical concept, but it can also help you build the discipline you’re looking for.
Let’s say you want to exercise more often. You’re having trouble following through, but what if you
offered yourself a reward each time you worked out? Knowing you’ll receive something good
gives you a concrete reason to follow through. At first, you may rely on these rewards to motivate
healthy habits, but as you become disciplined, you may find the motivation all on your own.
8. The Power of Your Voice Your voice is a powerful tool,
especially when it comes to self-discipline. Simply by voicing your ambitions, studies have
shown that you’re more likely to pursue them. So, put yourself out there. Speak your goals
to life. Once you hear those goals in your own words, they’ll suddenly feel real and tangible,
empowering you to finally achieve your dreams. Keep in mind that this is an activity best
done alone. Ideally, you should find a space where you can talk to yourself without feeling
doubt or insecurity. When you know people are listening, you’re less likely to say what’s
really on your mind. So carve out some alone time and use the power of your voice to its fullest.
9. Push Beyond Your Limits
If you want to develop iron self-discipline, you need to prove that you can push beyond
your limits. Exercise is of the best ways to challenge and expand your perceived limitations.
Lifting weights, for example, proves just how strong you can be, not just physically but
mentally, emotionally, and socially. Every time you set a new personal best, it radically expands
your drive, courage, and potential. So, get in the gym and prove to yourself that you can surpass
your limits. Because that same spirit will help you stay disciplined in every aspect of your life.
10. Conquer Your Schedule Many of us lead busy, jam-packed lives.
We have dates to memorize, promises to keep, and commitments to deliver upon. With so many things
shuffling around our brains, some things are bound to slip through the cracks. Promises are
forgotten. Goals are neglected, and you may lose track of the healthy habits you want to learn.
If you want to become a more disciplined person, organization is key. It helps to use simple
systems like calendars and to-do lists to keep yourself focused on what you want to achieve.
Organizing your time not only frees up mental space but it gives you a newfound sense of power
and control. Once you’ve conquered your schedule, you’ll feel ready to start conquering your goals.
11. Countdown to Action Do you have trouble starting
projects? For many people, starting is the hardest part. They struggle over
and over to put themselves in a productive state of mind. But the hours keep passing,
and they hardly make an ounce of progress. If you want to be more productive without
wasting time, here is a simple trick to stay disciplined no matter how lazy you feel.
All you have to do is close your eyes and count down from ten. As you count,
your mind will naturally work through any anxiety and descend into a greater state of focus.
By the time you reach one, you’ll be ready and raring to go.
12. Make Your Vision a Reality Here’s a question that some people
never ask themselves: what do you really want out of your life? Imagine, for a moment, what you want
your life to look like a few years in the future. Think about your career and relationships. What
kind of life do you want to lead, and how do you spend your time? When you’ve narrowed down your
answer, pull out some paper and write down a few concrete steps you can take today to achieve at
least one part of your vision. Sometimes, all it takes is a little clarity to prove
to ourselves how much we can achieve. Thank you for watching TopThink and
be sure to subscribe because more incredible content is on the way.