Let’s face it. In order to achieve your goals and dreams, you need to practise self-discipline. The best piece of advice we’ve ever received in regards to building self-discipline is that it’s like a muscle – the more you exercise it, the stronger it will get. Here’s how to do just that.

Identify a Focus Point

Before you can work on self-discipline, you first need to identity an area of focus. Do you want to be more successful in your career? Do you want to eat more healthily, exercise, and hopefully shed a few kilograms? In order to build self-discipline, set a goal and then set about figuring out how to achieve it.

Start with One Thing

If your goal is to be more successful at work, don’t focus solely on your ultimate goal, but rather on one that is attainable in the short-term. If you want to lose 30 kilograms, focusing on such a large number may be ultimately overwhelming so it’s best to focus on a small goal first. Focus on losing 5 kilograms and then another 5 until the target doesn’t seem so far away.

Make Lists

The best way to get closer to your goal is to create an action plan. Sit down and make a list of all the things that you need to do in order to achieve your ultimate goal. If you want to be more productive at work, consider getting enough sleep.

Set Yourself Up for Success

If you find it difficult to be on time for work, set alarms for when you should wake up, when you should start getting ready, and when you should begin your commute. If you’re trying to eat healthier and you know you’re going to have a busy day, pack your snacks and make your lunch the night before so you won’t be tempted to grab something unhealthy on the go.

Use Technology to Your Advantage

There are plenty of apps that can assist us with productive and tracking progress. If you’re trying to be healthier and lose weight, there are apps which can help you track and celebrate your progress. Input the data on a regular basis so that you can see quantifiable proof of your dreams becoming a reality.

Recognise Your Temptations

If you know that you tend to get distracted by your mobile phone in business meetings, leave your phone at your desk instead so that it does not become a source of temptation. If you know you tend to overeat when visiting a restaurant, focus on eating at home until your resolve is strengthened.

Remember that Failure is Part of the Process

You will slip up from time to time, but the trick is to not give up when you have a bad day. So you had an unproductive day at work or ate fast food for lunch? It’s okay! Tomorrow is a new day! Start afresh and be kind to yourself.