Tag Archive for: self discipline
Finishers Wanted
Recently I was asked; “How do I improve my self-discipline?”
It requires time and effort on your part.
It also requires the development of daily habits by reminding yourself often why you need this ability and how it will help you achieve your goals in life.
Remember the little poem…
Finishers wanted.
Stick to your task, till it sticks to you;
Beginners are many, but enders few.
Honour, power, place and praise will come, in time, to the one who stays.
Stick to your task, till it sticks to you;
Bend at it, sweat at it, smile at it, too;
For out of the bend and the sweat and the smile
Will come life’s victories after a while. (Anonymous)
Focus and self-discipline are the foundations for producing truly amazing results and performance.
Plato said: “The first and best victory is to conquer self; to be conquered by self is, of all things, the most shameful and vile.”
Consider these ideas…
- Set clear goals.
- Start small.
- Learn how to say no.
- Know where you will struggle and where you succeed.
- Find a way to monitor your progress – create a to do list.
- Encourage yourself to stick to your plan, a partner can help too!
- Get rid of your distractions.
- Forgive yourself when you fail – begin again!
- Keep a journal.
- Practice, repeat, practice, repeat.
The path may be tough, but the results are amazing.
The pain you feel today, will be the strength you feel tomorrow.
It starts with you – begin now!
Why do you think self-discipline is important to your progress and happiness?
Marathons and Missions – the same, but different

Connections
Is disconnection from Wi-Fi an annoyance in your home? It was in ours! “The Wi-Fi is down again” was often a topic of daily conversation. Resetting the router became a regular household activity.
After some investigation, I discovered the router was over 10 years old – and was overdue for an upgrade. Eventually, I ordered up a new router, and during lockdown – being forced to slowdown – I took the time to set it up correctly. In turn that day, one by one – mobiles, laptops, a tablet, a smart speaker and televisions were all reconnected. Result – no more daily disconnects.
Similarly, these last few weeks, I have noticed something about my personal behaviour. Just like my faulty old router with its technical problems, over the years, I’d become disconnected from far too many of my colleagues, acquaintances and too many friends to even mention. Perhaps, with age too, I had become a little slower!
It was time for an upgrade! With a little focus, slowing down during lockdown has allowed me to speed up again, strengthen my signal and reconnect – one by one! It’s been great fun, lifting my spirits and catching up on a lot of personal news stories!
If you are feeling disconnected, in need of a lift, why not reconnect – go for that upgrade today!
3 Principles of Happiness
These last few weeks I have really enjoyed reading my journals.
Whilst doing so, I was reminded of a little story that I’d love to share.
Before we hastily return to our pre-lockdown life, please consider these three principles that have helped me considerably.
Punctuality: A Rare and Powerful Virtue
Punctuality is becoming a rare skill in today’s fast-paced world.
Yet, being on time can transform relationships, productivity, and self-confidence.
I’ve mastered punctuality through self-discipline and preparation.
Rarely am I late.
Just yesterday, a colleague commented, “bang on time!”
However, on the virtual learning session of 20 participants, there were 8 who never turned up and only 2 of the 12 who did show up were on time.
A single lateness can have a domino effect on others’ and the people with which they interact.
It made me reflect on how much I value being punctual—it’s not just about arriving on time; it’s about respect and dependability.
Preparation is key.
I leave early, allowing buffer time for unexpected delays.
If a face to face meeting starts at 9:00, I aim to be there for 8:45.
And if its online, I’m always a few minutes early.
Arriving early lets me relax and prepare, reducing stress and setting the tone for the day.
Punctuality isn’t just about organisation; it shows you value others’ time and take your commitments seriously.
Unfortunately, tardiness is becoming common, creating frustration and lost opportunities.
How often do you find yourself running late?
This week, commit to small changes: plan ahead, set reminders, and add buffer time.
Notice how it reduces stress and enhances your interactions.
Punctuality is a reflection of respect—for others and yourself.
Are you ready to make it your strength?