By Published On: November 4th, 2015Categories: Inspirational, Self-Development

“Everyone must choose one of two pains: The pain of discipline or the pain of regret.” ~Mark Twain

Why is discipline, the essential element of success, so difficult? Because it requires that we put down the fun stuff for the time being and focus on the actions that will achieve our goals or align us with our values.

I face this beast almost every day. There is usually something I’d rather do than write. Once I start writing, I come under a siege of impulses that take me to email, the phone, or the refrigerator. I have to continually pull myself back to the page until the “zone”, the single minded focus where great things are born, takes over.

On days where the distractions are more compelling than the discipline I try to remember Mark Twain’s quote. What will I regret if I do not apply the discipline? The answer motivates me back into action. And if it doesn’t, then I know it’s time to revisit the goal and make sure it’s aligned with my values.

 

4 Comments

  1. Kurt November 4, 2015 at 5:17 PM

    Good one!

    • dawnkohler November 4, 2015 at 6:10 PM

      Thanks Kurt! Glad you enjoy the blog.

  2. Anonymous January 5, 2016 at 5:52 PM

    I really needed to read this today. I need to visit your website/blog more often. I am easily distracted at work because I no longer enjoy working. I want to be at home creating and cooking and listening to my music and dancing. Would have should have stayed in college.
    I printed out the quote and will place it on my computer at work because someone is paying me to work and not play card games or read blogs (haha).
    I will also place this quote in several rooms at my home because this year I will be the healthiest I will ever be – no regrets!
    Thank you so much for the inspirating you bring me.
    -Lisa

  3. Lisa January 5, 2016 at 6:01 PM

    I really needed to read this today. I must visit your website more often, I love the inspiration your blog gives. I have written down the Mark Twain quote and will place in on my computer at work because I no longer want to work but have to.
    This year will also be the healthiest I will ever be. No regrets. :) So this quote will be placed all over my house as well.
    Thank you for the inspiration!
    -Lisa

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