Motivation & Discipline

While motivation may be good, discipline is better. Here’s why.

Motivation is a fleeting feeling. Here one minute, gone the next. Discipline on the other hand, is a way of life; something we ingrain in ourselves.

At some point in our lives, we all have said to ourselves, “I need to get in shape” or “I need to exercise more…I just need to get motivated.” This begs the question: What motivates you?

Health? Weight loss? Family?

What we often forget is that motivation can be a crutch, rather than an actual motivator. Relying on something to motivate you or acting solely based on motivation is not a sustainable lifestyle when it comes to health and exercise. However, adopting an attitude of discipline can change your outlook completely.

Think of professional athletes, they are both motivated and disciplined. In an interview they may say that their family is what motivates them to compete and do well, yet discipline is what gets them in the gym every morning at 5 am; makes sense, right? We all know that one person who finds a way to fit exercise into their schedule no matter what, even on vacation. That type of person is disciplined.

So don’t wait around for motivation, discipline yourself instead. Set a workout schedule and stick to it. Don’t just be motivated to lose weight or get in shape, as that feeling will only last so long before it burns out. Become someone who is focused and disciplined on the goal ahead. You will thank yourself in the long run.

By: Justin A. Seedman BS, CPT, CHC