How to Become More Self-Controlled and Disciplined

We can all use a little more self-control from time to time.

Instead of being the exception, it’s time to work on developing better self-control before you spiral out of control.

1. Begin with the small tasks first

If you start small, it’s usually easier to get into the habit of being more self-disciplined.

So pick a small area of your life where you could use more discipline and focus on it.

2. Only one thing at a time!

It’s tempting to jot down a long list of areas in which you need to improve your self-control.

That’s what half the world does at the beginning of each year.

Few people have stuck with their resolutions a month later.

All of this serves as further evidence that trying to pay attention to numerous tasks simultaneously always ends in failure.

Instead, focus on one aspect of your life at a time.

After that, move on to the next issue and so forth.

3. Keep a progress log.

When it comes to self-discipline, the old adage “what gets measured, gets done” is absolutely true.

Record how far you’ve progressed towards your goals each day to show that you’re making progress.

Use a word processor, a spreadsheet, or an old-fashioned notebook to accomplish this.

Irrespective of the medium used, it’s important that you’re keeping track of your progress.

4. Ignore setbacks

Don’t be discouraged when things don’t work out.

Even with the smallest task, a setback is still possible.

Every now and then, you’ll encounter a setback in your quest for greater self-control due to unforeseen circumstances.

Allow yourself the occasional setback as a natural part of life.

There is no reason to believe that all of your efforts were in vain.

If something got in the way, then that’s all it means.

Once you have dealt with the “something,” go back to where you were before it popped up in your life.

5. Treat yourself

Treat yourself to a little self-love.

There is a lot to be said for the importance of incentives.

For all but the smallest tasks, it’s worth rewarding yourself when you reach a goal along the way (in addition to when you’ve completed the task itself).

Pick a reward that you’ll be happy to give to yourself and wait to give it to yourself until after you’ve reached your goal. No cheating! You’ll know what works best for you in these situations.