Struggling with discipline that you’re needing to achieve your goals? In this episode, Adam Hill discusses the three key components to developing real discipline. From focusing on goals to maintaining self-control, this episode is your guide to unlocking your full potential. He also explains why an approach of “slow and steady wins the race” is better than “short-term bursts of willpower.” Learn how to push yourself forward, stay motivated, and take action towards your goals.
Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation:
Discipline vs. willpower
Unlocking real discipline through purpose
The illusion of 110%
The power of consistency
The power of 5% to achieve long-term goals
The power of starting at 80% capacity
The domain of discipline
Episode Highlights:
[06:08] The Power of Meaningful Purpose to Unlock Real Discipline
Having a meaningful purpose behind your goal or pursuit is crucial for developing real discipline. For instance, Adam stayed disciplined with the cello in high school because he found meaning in potentially getting into a good college through his playing. On the other hand, when he tried different fitness programs without a deeper meaning beyond wanting six-pack abs, he struggled to stay disciplined. Adam emphasizes that the meaning should go beyond superficial desires and instead be something that brings pride, like positively impacting others. This meaningful purpose is essential for long-term discipline development and maintenance.
[15:01] The Power of Consistency
Consistency is the key to success. It's not just about having a plan, but also about following it with unwavering dedication. Whether it's in business, fitness, or relationships, staying consistent is crucial. We shouldn't shame ourselves for occasional lapses; instead, we course correct and keep moving forward. Consistency is an integral part of discipline, and while they are not the same, consistency plays a vital role. Many people struggle with maintaining consistency, but with a well-crafted plan, commitment, and meaningful purpose, anyone can stay on track and achieve their goals.
[16:16] The Power of 5%: Achieving Long-Term Goals One Step at a Time
Adam emphasizes the importance of breaking down big, long-term goals into manageable steps. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of the task, he suggests working backwards and identifying the next smallest step that represents just a 5% increase in challenge or progress. By taking small, incremental steps, the journey remains exciting and within reach, rather than intimidating. For instance, when Adam wanted to become an Ironman triathlete, he started by learning to float in the pool as his first 5% step, slowly building up his swimming ability until he completed the full open water swim. By embracing this approach, long-term goals become achievable, preventing burnout and ensuring sustainable progress without relying solely on willpower.
[20:45] The Power of Starting at 80%: Embracing Discipline and Sustainable Progress
When embarking on a new endeavor, whether it's starting a business, investing, or beginning a fitness program, we are often misled by the notion that we must give 110% from the start. This is a lie perpetuated by hustle culture and influencers. The truth is, true discipline lies in starting at 80% of our capacity, not pushing ourselves to the brink. Willpower is finite and unsustainable. Counterintuitively, the key to discipline is holding back and pacing ourselves. Slowing down may be challenging, but it is an essential aspect of discipline that many people overlook. By embracing this approach, we can foster sustainable progress and achieve our goals in a way that is both effective and manageable.
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