Discipline isn’t about restrictions – it’s about creating choices. When we discipline ourselves, we’re choosing to do what we know is right, even when it’s tough.
The morning is a great time to start making these choices. It sets the tone for the rest of the day.
And guess what? There are certain habits you can adopt each morning to boost your discipline levels.
If you want to become more disciplined, I’ve got 10 things for you to start doing every morning.
Let’s dive in.
1) Early bird gets the worm
One of the best ways to improve your discipline is to get up early.
It’s a simple idea, but it has a profound impact. You see, when you rise early, you’re making a conscious decision to start your day on your terms, not on someone else’s.
Getting up early requires discipline and commitment. It’s not always easy, especially when your bed is warm and cozy. But that’s the point. It’s about doing what needs to be done, even when it’s hard.
Once you’re up, you have quiet moments to yourself before the rest of the world wakes up. You can use this time to plan your day, meditate, exercise or do anything else that sets a positive tone for the rest of your day.
Starting your day early can be transformative. But remember, consistency is key. Set that alarm and make this a daily habit.
2) Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness is something I’ve personally incorporated into my morning routine.
Let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer.
I started with just five minutes each morning, sitting in silence and focusing on my breath. I noticed that it helped me start my day with a sense of calm and clarity.
But here’s the thing about mindfulness – it’s not just about the act itself, it’s about the discipline it cultivates.
Consistently taking those few minutes each morning, no matter what, builds a habit of discipline that spills over into other areas of your life. It teaches you to be present, to be patient, and to be disciplined – even when you don’t feel like it.
Give mindfulness a try. You might be surprised by the impact it has on your discipline.
3) Stay hydrated
Starting your day with a glass of water is a great way to kickstart your metabolism and cleanse your body.
But did you know that even mild dehydration can affect your mood, energy levels, and ability to think clearly? According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, even a 1% drop in hydration can significantly affect our cognitive functions.
Make it a habit to drink a glass of water first thing in the morning. Not only will this help maintain optimal brain function throughout the day, but it will also instill a sense of discipline.
4) Set daily goals
Setting daily goals is a powerful way to cultivate discipline. It gives your day a sense of purpose and direction.
When you wake up, take a few minutes to write down what you want to achieve that day. It could be anything from completing a project at work, going for a run, or even spending quality time with your loved ones.
The act of writing down your goals makes them tangible and real. It gives you something to strive for and helps keep you on track throughout the day.
But remember, the key isn’t just to set goals – it’s to follow through with them. Each time you achieve a goal, no matter how small, you’re reinforcing your own discipline.
5) Exercise regularly
Exercise is a fantastic way to build discipline. It requires dedication, commitment, and consistency – all key aspects of discipline.
Starting your day with exercise not only gets your blood pumping and sets a positive tone for the day, but it also helps build a habit of discipline. It’s not always easy to get out of bed and workout, especially when you’re tired or it’s cold outside. But pushing through and doing it anyway is what discipline is all about.
Even a short workout can make a big difference. So whether it’s a quick jog, some yoga, or weight lifting, make exercise a part of your morning routine.
6) Practice gratitude
Gratitude is a powerful force that can transform your outlook on life.
Each morning, take a moment to reflect on the things you’re grateful for. It could be something as simple as the warmth of the sun, the love of your family, or even the opportunity to face a new day.
Practicing gratitude instills a sense of contentment and peace, but it also requires discipline. It’s about consciously choosing to focus on the positive, even when life gets tough.
And let me tell you, there’s something incredibly empowering about starting your day with a heart full of gratitude. It gives you the strength and resolve to face any challenge that comes your way.
7) Break your fast wisely
I learnt the hard way that what you eat first thing in the morning can determine how you feel for the rest of your day.
There was a time when I would start my day with sugary cereals or pastries. By mid-morning, I’d feel sluggish and struggle to concentrate.
I decided to make a change and switched to a protein-rich breakfast. The difference was astonishing. I felt energized and focused throughout the day.
Choosing a healthy breakfast requires discipline, especially when you’re tempted by less healthy options. But the positive impact on your overall wellbeing makes it worth it. Be mindful of what you eat first thing in the morning – your body and mind will thank you for it.
8) Embrace the silence
In our hustle and bustle world, we often overlook the power of silence.
Many of us wake up and immediately turn on the TV, check social media, or start responding to emails. We’re constantly bombarded with noise and information.
But what if we took a different approach? What if, instead of filling our mornings with noise, we embraced the silence?
Silence gives you a chance to reflect, to plan, and to simply be. It requires discipline to resist the urge to fill every moment with noise.
Try it. Spend the first few minutes of your day in silence. You might be surprised by how calming and refreshing it can be.
9) Tidy up your space
A clutter-free environment can do wonders for your mental clarity.
Starting your day by tidying up your space allows you to have a fresh start. It’s a small act, but it can have a big impact on your mindset and productivity.
This simple habit requires discipline, especially when you’re in a rush or not in the mood. But taking the time to create order in your surroundings can help bring order to your thoughts as well.
Make your bed, clean up your desk, or organize your kitchen. A clean space can set the stage for a disciplined and productive day.
10) Stick to your routine
The most important part of building discipline is consistency.
It’s not just about doing these things once or twice. It’s about making them a part of your daily routine.
Sticking to a routine requires discipline, but it also helps cultivate it. Each day, when you choose to stick to your routine, you’re strengthening your discipline muscle.
Make these habits a part of your morning routine and stick to it, even on the days when you don’t feel like it. That’s what discipline is all about.
The heart of discipline
Discipline is a journey, not a destination.
It’s about making a series of choices, each and every day, that align with your values and goals.
And while it often requires sacrifice and discomfort, it also brings empowerment and freedom.
Remember, discipline isn’t something you’re born with. It’s a skill you cultivate over time. And like any skill, it requires practice.
The morning habits we’ve discussed here are stepping stones on your path to discipline. Each one represents a choice – a choice to prioritize long-term growth over short-term comfort.
As Aristotle once said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”
So start your day with intention. Make these habits a part of your morning routine. And remember, small steps lead to big changes.
Here’s to your journey of discipline – and the freedom it brings.
