If you want to achieve what most people don’t, you need to do the work that most people won’t.
Fitness is a great analogy for life. The formula is fairly simple, yet it requires an incredible amount of discipline to achieve. This week, my run coach has me tackling a mock Sinister 7. For those unfamiliar, the Sinister 7 is an ultra-marathon race through the rugged terrain of the Canadian Rockies, spanning 161 km over seven legs. My challenge is to run the equivalent distance of each leg of the race every day this week.
Here’s what my week looks like:
- Monday: 18.3 km
- Tuesday: 16.7 km
- Wednesday: 31 km
- Thursday: 25 km
- Friday: 26.2 km
- Saturday: 32 km
- Sunday: 11 km
The task is daunting, and given my work schedule this week, I will need to work in some 5 a.m. mornings to complete it.
I don’t share this to compare or boast; I share it to remind you that you can be who you want to be if you are willing to do the work.
No one will do it for you, and there will be a million excuses why you can’t. Be stronger than your excuses.
The Science of Discipline
Discipline is often misunderstood as a trait that some people are just born with. However, science tells us that discipline is a skill that can be developed over time with practice and persistence. Discipline involves the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for decision-making and impulse control. Strengthening this part of the brain can lead to better self-control and, ultimately, greater success getting shit done.
Here are a few strategies to help you develop discipline:
- Set Clear Milestones: I have written why I am not a fan of traditional goals. That said, setting some clear milestones can allow you to bite off your bigger objectives in smaller chunks. When I run 100 miles I don’t think about the entire distance. My milestone is simply to get to the next aid station. Later in the race I may set my milestone to be the next 10 steps.
- Create a Roadmap: Having a clear path to follow makes discipline so much easier. When you know exactly what the next step is, you are far more likely to execute it.
- Build Routines: Consistent habits can help reduce the mental effort required to make decisions.
- Celebrate the Wins: Track your progress and celebrate the “wins,” no matter how small. The dopamine snowball effect of celebrating the small stuff helps you stay motivated and make adjustments as needed.
- Stay Accountable: Share your milestones with someone who will support and challenge you.
Sometimes, to become the person you are meant to be, you must do things you don’t want to do. Be stronger than your excuses, no matter the endeavor.
Morning Inspiration
These photos from this morning’s run were too gorgeous not to share. Let them inspire you to push past your own limits and reach for those big goals.
