The most coveted human virtue is self-control, which is synonymous to discipline.  People yearn to possess better discipline, especially when they know it’s power in personal leadership and self-development.  Over my career, I’ve learned that there are professional development strategies that even if taught, don’t get implemented, until foundational personal habits to support them are solid.  Discipline is one of them.  For example, how can I teach or learn time management skills if I cannot first make and keep commitments?

Check out my short video about how you can become more disciplined:

At the beginning of this year the theme was about planning.  Goal setting, strategic and even personal planning ideas, tips and strategies were shared with you.  We are now entering the second quarter of the year.  Are you on track with your goals?  Of course, if you want to be more disciplined, you must be clear on what result you’re looking for.

Based on your goals, how are you doing?  Are you on track, or off track?  Use these three questions to find out why you haven’t achieved your goals.

• What do you need to be doing more of (and when)?
• What do you need to be doing less of (and when)?
• Who do you need to spend more time with, and who do you need to spend less time with?

With the answers to these questions, you’ll have the specific road map on how to get where you need to be.  Here’s an example of what I needed to be doing more of, and when.  When I got disciplined to the action of doing it, the results were even more perfect than I could have imagined.

About 6 months ago, I time blocked mornings as follow up time.  Calls to prospects, checking in on proposals, and cold calling (or connection making as I call it).  The difference was immediate, and intense.  I knew what to do, but only when I became disciplined to do it and say ‘no’ to other shiny ideas, tasks or distractions, did the results show like gas being thrown on a fire.  Where do you need more discipline?

I have committed to sharing my strategies and knowledge about discipline this month.  I will blog about a personal experience that inspired the topic, so be sure to check it out.  Personally, I know that my most important discipline is my spirituality, and then second is my health.  Family is next.  Why?  Because I have to take care of myself to be a good leader and influence for others. Make sure you’re taking care of the machine with a good balance.  The machine is YOU.  Your body, mind and spirit need to be nurtured, fed, rested and rewarded.  Only when you’re well balanced can you have the power of full engagement to empower your actions.

I am sure much of this resonates with you.  If you’re seeking better discipline, I have a coaching program well suited for individuals or teams wanting bigger results.

So remember, be disciplined, and be rich and … that your greatest leadership day is with Penny Tremblay.