Here’s something you’ve probably said to yourself before:
“If only I was more disciplined, I’d be able to… [insert life goal here].”
Sound familiar? It does for me. I used to say it all the time whenever I’d hit a roadblock with my health, work, or personal goals.
“Stop being lazy and start being disciplined,” I’d think to myself.
But based on my experience – and my work with clients all over the world in my coaching program – I don’t agree that discipline is the magical, elusive solution we all need to become healthier, more productive, and more present with our loved ones.
Here’s what I’ve learned: you DON’T need more discipline. You need to figure out how to make what you want and need to do EASIER, so discipline isn’t necessary.
So easy, in fact, that it’s almost laughable.
“Pff, alright, Ian. Eat ONE serving of vegetables a day? Anyone can do that!”
Great. So… do it.
Then do it again the next day. And the next day, and the next day…
Then, once eating one serving of vegetables becomes as automatic as breathing, bump it up to two servings, and repeat.
Suddenly, being “disciplined” and eating well isn’t a constant fight against temptation. It’s just what you do.
You can apply this to any area of your life:
🥗 Nutrition: Eat one serving of vegetables per day.
💻 Work: Work for at least 30 minutes undistracted per day.
👫 Life: Turn my phone off when I’m spending quality time with friends and family.
Start small and build slowly over time (this philosophy is what makes my clients so successful).
I’m currently using this “make it easier” approach with my workout routine.
Right now, I’m hitting the gym twice per week.
Normally, I’d go three or four times, but that’s when my schedule is balanced, my stress is manageable, and I’m practicing other important health behaviors consistently.
But for the next month, my schedule’s packed, I’m trying to land a big project, and my team’s working out what our goals and responsibilities will look like in the new year. It’s tough for me to find the time and energy to go to the gym there or four times per week right now.
Does that mean I’m going to stop going entirely just because I can’t be “disciplined” and adhere to my perfect gym routine?
Hell no. I’ll just make it easier for now and get back to normal once things calm down.
Remember: It’s not about being more disciplined. It’s about making what you want and need to do even easier.
Today, ask yourself:
1) What’s something I think I need more discipline for, yet find myself frustrated and stuck?
And then…
2) How can I make it even easier?
Hope this helps. Have a great start to your week.
Love you lots,
❤️ Ian
P.S. Need help making what you want and need to do easier? Schedule time to connect with me. Let’s get you on the right track and making progress again.
Ian Estabrook 