Even though it has been a while since my last post, leadership is still a focus of my daily life. I have allowed other priorities to consume my time. I will get back to a regular posting schedule, just not as frequently as in the past.
Often the word “Discipline” connotes an idea of someone in authority instilling punishment or enforcing corrective actions on someone else. This is a valid definition of the word but does not apply to today’s context. With this post, think of discipline as something you do to and for yourself. It is not an outside source or some other person pushing you.
With this framing of discipline, someone is willing to set aside short-term pleasure or triumph in order to gain a long-term, more significant benefit. For example, if we choose to forgo a sugary breakfast for something more wholesome we will likely have better focus and more enduring energy to pursue the tasks and goals set before us. If we choose to exercise on a regular basis we increase the likelihood of greater overall health, focus, and longevity.
From a leadership perspective, we discipline ourselves by setting aside our own desire to be in the spotlight and receive praise (short-term gain). Instead, we need to coach and mentor those in our care, look to give them opportunities to grow and improve, and turn the focus on them as a group and individuals to receive the praise and adoration for success. We take actions that help remove obstacles that interfere with the success of those in our care.
We absorb and take ownership of situations where our team fell short of a goal or expected outcome. We discipline ourselves to take the time, pause and reflect on how to better prepare the team and each individual for future success. These are opportunities for us to learn and gain insight as leaders.
It is through self-discipline that we experience freedom and become less encumbered by physical, mental, and emotional limitations. We can all improve how we lead. A cornerstone of exceptional leadership is self-discipline.
I have learned from people like Jocko Willink. Although I have never met the man I do consider him a mentor and coach. If the yearning for a better way to lead others is part of your core, I suggest taking some time to read his books and listen to his podcasts. This is the man from whom I adopted this idea of, “Discipline Equals Freedom”.
This is the second in a series of three posts. The previous blog was about intentionality. The next one will be addressing the need for persistence in seeking a purpose for a significant life.