The Hidden Benefits of Developing Discipline
Developing self-discipline is an important aspect of personal growth that can lead to numerous positive outcomes. According to Duckworth and Seligman (2005), self-discipline is defined as “the ability to regulate oneself in the pursuit of long-term goals with the use of short-term tactics” (p. 1087). By cultivating self-discipline, individuals can experience a sense of accomplishment, gain more self-respect, and develop a better understanding of their capabilities.
Accomplishing goals through self-discipline provides individuals with a sense of pride and achievement. By working towards a goal every day and persisting until it is achieved, individuals develop a greater appreciation for their ability to stay focused and committed. This sense of accomplishment can also boost self-esteem, as noted by Baumeister, Heatherton, and Tice (1993) who found that “people who achieve their goals experience greater satisfaction with their lives” (p. 141).
Developing self-discipline can help individuals discover their true capabilities. By setting goals and working towards them with discipline, individuals can identify and overcome self-imposed limitations. As highlighted by Duckworth and Gross (2014), “self-discipline allows people to persevere in the face of obstacles and setbacks, and to push through discomfort and difficulty”(p. 949). This process of self-discovery can lead to a better understanding of one’s strengths and weaknesses and can facilitate personal growth.
As observed by DeWall and Baumeister (2006), the hidden benefit of self-discipline is that can increase an individual’s self-respect. “Individuals with high self-discipline are often perceived as being more competent and capable than those with low self-discipline”(p. 271). By demonstrating self-discipline, individuals can develop a stronger sense of personal worth and self-respect.
In conclusion, developing self-discipline is a valuable tool for personal growth that can lead to numerous unexpected positive outcomes. By cultivating self-discipline, individuals can experience the additional hidden benefits such as, a sense of accomplishment, gain more self-respect, and develop a better understanding of their capabilities. As noted by Duckworth and Seligman (2005),“self-discipline is a fundamental aspect of human agency that has far-reaching implications for both individuals and society” (p. 1087).
Dr. Kevin Gazzara — is a senior partner and founder of Magna Leadership Solutions, based in Phoenix, Arizona. He is the co-author of “The Leader of OZ” at www.leaderofoz.com and “Ready, Set, Get Hired”. He is an international speaker and recognized as a Management & Leadership Expert and an ICF and Positive Intelligence www.PQTrainingandCoaching.com certified Executive Coach. Kevin has been a professor at 6 Universities developing and teaching programs to help others achieve their full potential.
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Thank you,
Dr. Kevin Gazzara
Senior Partner at Magna Leadership Solutions and Certified Positive Intelligence ICF Coach
References:
Baumeister, R. F., Heatherton, T. F., & Tice, D. M. (1993). When ego threats lead to self-regulation failure: Negative consequences of high self-esteem. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 64(1), 141–156.
DeWall, C. N., & Baumeister, R. F. (2006). Alone but feeling no pain: Effects of social exclusion on physical pain tolerance and pain threshold, affective forecasting, and interpersonal empathy. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 91(1), 1–15.
Duckworth, A. L., & Gross, J. J. (2014). Self-control and grit: Related but separable determinants of success. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 23(5), 319–325.
Duckworth, A. L., & Seligman, M. E. (2005). Self-discipline outdoes IQ in predicting academic performance of adolescents. Psychological Science, 16(12), 939–944.
