ON PURPOSE — Discipline
🕐 15 minute read
Welcome to the ON PURPOSE series, where I dive into a focused intention, sharing my vision board for inspiration and offering thought-provoking questions to inspire reflection and embodiment — an invitation to live with purpose.
I decided to kick off the year with discipline, breaking it down to build it up better and stronger. Discipline is everywhere at the start of the year — New Year’s resolutions, fresh routines, and renewed commitments. I’m exploring how it can be a guiding force for purposeful living, not just in January, but for when the excitement wears off.
SANKALPA
I EMBRACE DISCIPLINE AS MY GUIDING LIGHT. THROUGH DEDICATED FOCUS AND CONSISTENT ACTION, I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT A DISCIPLINED PATH LEADS TO PERSONAL GROWTH AND SELF LOVE.
If you're reading this, you probably want to become more disciplined—or at least you're open to the idea. The key is focus + consistent action. It’s not easy, and most won’t stick with it. But it takes short-term sacrifice for long-term growth.
VISION
REFLECT
What specific desires/dreams/goals lie on the other side of discipline for me? Identify what would be possible through embracing discipline.
How am I balancing short-term comfort with long-term success? When was the last time I sacrificed immediate pleasure for future gains, and what motivates me to choose discipline over instant gratification? Reflect on why being disciplined matters to me.
In what areas of my life do I find it challenging to maintain discipline? Identify situations where maintaining discipline is difficult and explore potential solutions.
How can I remind myself of the importance of discipline throughout the month? Consider creating daily reminders or rituals to reinforce your commitment to a disciplined lifestyle. Bit by bit, weave it in. Ask yourself, “Does this support the life I am trying to create?”
GUIDANCE
At first, integrating discipline into your life might feel uncomfortable or awkward. Think of it as a warm-up, knowing that building new systems and updating mindsets take time and practice. For me, the key has been simply practicing discipline.
In the realm of movement, regardless of the specific form one practices, there is one key thing – self-discipline. Without it, the transformative outcomes of yoga (or any deep practice) remain elusive. This brings to mind tapas in the Patanjali Yogasutra – a sanskrit word relating to the burning effort within. It signifies not just the commitment to the practice but also the eagerness to delve into the journey of self-development.
To understand discipline better, I asked others for their insights. One common theme stood out: discipline only works when connected to a purpose. Without a clear goal or vision, routines can feel stagnant. It’s not about discipline for discipline’s sake, but about using your willpower with intention—finding your why.
When looking at discipline in the face, it felt too masculine — pushing through and forced — so I had to rethink it.
What if discipline were seen through a feminine lens? I realized that feminine energy actually thrives within discipline. While feminine energy is linked to nurturing, creativity, flow, and intuition, it needs structure to fully unfold. Discipline provides the framework that supports and allows these qualities to emerge.
Starting small, like making my bed in the morning, became a powerful practice. The simple act of tending to my soft and cozy sanctuary sets a tone of care and order for the day. From this view, I approach tasks I might normally resist with a sense of ease, knowing I’m honoring the promises I’ve made to myself and setting up my future self for success.
Expect to get off track. I’ve learned that anticipating these moments and planning for them is key, especially after a weekend when I fell out of routine. I’ve been asking myself: How can I support myself during setbacks? What strategies can I create to recover and refocus?
Discipline, when approached from a balance of feminine and masculine energy, becomes a more intentional approach to actively creating flow through the ups + downs of our days.
I’m excited about this shift—it’s opened up so much for me, and I hope it does for you too.
As you move forward, remember that setbacks are not signs of failure but opportunities for growth. Plan for them, draw strength from your purpose, and be guided by the light of your burning effort.
I hope this inspires you, xx
