Self-discipline means you have the inner strength to control your feelings, behavior and impulses. When you are self-disciplined, you’ll discover that you are constantly reminding yourself to think positively and to control all your actions, while avoiding negativity. By practicing self-discipline you’re able to achieve long-term goals without being distracted by what could go wrong during your drive for your goals.

Self-discipline also means that you are dependable. Others will rely on you because you are self-disciplined and have the power to keep your promises and do what is right. These characteristics are essential in the martial arts and are key habits that true Black Belts practice all of the time.

Here are some basic tips to help you develop self-discipline:

• Practice a “Can-Do” attitude. When the way in life is tough, don’t let negativity slow your progress. Focus on accomplishing your goals and overcoming your obstacles.

• Punctuality: Always be on time. When you are self-disciplined, you understand that being late is a bad habit that shows disrespect to all who are affected by your tardiness.

• Follow-through on your promises and commitments. You will begin to earn the trust of others, if you keep your promises and fulfill your commitments.

• Be honest with others. Honesty is always the best policy even when it may cause you trouble. If you are not honest, then future repercussions will often be more damaging than if you had been honest in the first place.

• Consistently set new goals to accomplish. Be self-disciplined and you’ll always strive to achieve new levels of accomplishments. This means more success and a brighter future.

Self-discipline is essentially the heartbeat of your lifestyle. Without its strength, you limit what you’re able to accomplish in life. When your heart is strong and it beats regular, then you have the stamina to accomplish much throughout the day. The same for self-discipline: only when it is strong do you maximize your possibilities!