Something More Important than Discipline

Why is it so hard to keep a practice schedule? Why is it so hard to stay consistent? To stay disciplined?

Because there's something even more important than discipline. Something you need before discipline can even take shape.

It's conviction. Faith in the process.

Believing that if you do A, B, and C, there's a very good chance you'll get D.

People who work a 9-5 job don't need to be convinced to come in. Because there's a certainty that if you show up every day, there will be a paycheck every other Friday.

On the other hand, if Friday arrives and the boss says, "Sorry, I don't have a paycheck for you this round. Maybe next time!", then it would be a different story.

This is why most people don't start a business. Employment with someone else is a guaranteed paycheck (most of the time). Starting something yourself doesn't come with the same guarantee.

So, how do we develop conviction in our work? How do we develop the belief that if we practice, good things will happen?

First, understanding that other people have done this before you.

Lots of people have maintained a practice schedule and learned to play the piano before you came along. You can even try to talk with a few of them.

Second, research. Reading into the science of the thing you're trying to practice.

If you're learning music, studying how the brain works when it practices. 

If you're trying to maintain a diet practice, researching why it works if you stick with it.

And if you really want to research it to death, try researching the opposite viewpoint. Then you'll have a well-rounded, informed conviction before you dive into it.

When we develop our conviction, discipline becomes easier.

Then, we can say with confidence...

If I do [activity] daily, I know I will get better at [skill], and then I will [happy outcome].

If I practice daily, I know I will get better at playing the piano, and then I will be able to enjoy music for life.

If I follow this diet daily, I know I will feel better, and then I will live a longer, healthier life.

If I write daily, I know I will get better at writing, and then more people will want to read my work.

If you struggle with discipline and consistency, try some conviction practice. Let us know how it goes.