Discipline is the first pillar of the Expect to Win mindset. It is the ability to stay focused on a goal and consistently work towards it, even when faced with obstacles or distractions. Discipline requires individuals to make sacrifices and prioritize their goals above all else. It is the key to developing good habits and routines that lead to success. Without discipline, it is easy to become sidetracked by distractions and lose sight of the end goal.

Early in my life I learned some very strong principles related to discipline:

• Doing what I need to do, irregardless of whether I want to or not.

• Consistently undertaking actions that others avoid or neglect.

Discipline defined: discipline is the reinforcement of order and control, the establishment of structured behavior, and in broader terms, the cultivation of self-restraint. It involves instruction and exercise aimed at improving mental and moral capacities. 

You can know what to do and how to do it, but the know how doesn’t achieve anything.  It takes action. Action is spurred by the discipline to consistently do it until you succeed.  Without discipline many of the best laid plans never happen.  

Renowned speaker Jim Rohn encapsulated this sentiment: “We must all suffer from one of two pains: the pain of discipline or the pain of regret. The difference is discipline weighs ounces while regret weighs tons.” The essential nature of discipline is non-negotiable for a harmonious and fulfilling life.

The concept is straightforward: One will either endure the brief discomfort of discipline or bear the extensive burden of regret. The realm of health and fitness aptly illustrates this principle; ignoring the temporary discomfort of exercise and sensible eating leads to a future filled with health-related woes—a stark deterrent driving one back to disciplined habits.

To lead a disciplined life, consider these three steps:

1. Articulate your ideal life across all areas:

   A. Personal (Health & Character, Relationships)

   B. Business

   C. Spiritual

   Reflect deeply on why these ideals matter to you, an endeavor that demands thoughtful introspection

2. In each area and for each specific ideal, compile a list of the specific high value tasks and activities that are required to achieve these ideals. 

3. Develop a system of accountability; without it, lasting change is improbable.  

   “The number 1 reason that individuals don’t follow through and achieve what they set out to do, is not holding themselves accountable to what they said they would do.”

There are a number of ways to hold yourself accountable: accountability partner, checklist and regular progress checks.

In conclusion, discipline is not merely a choice but a vital linchpin for personal and professional advancement. It is an investment in one's future self, yielding returns of inner strength, accomplishment, and the avoidance of regret. By clearly defining our ideals, understanding the required actions and habits, and instituting a robust accountability system, we pave the way to a life of discipline—a life that profoundly satisfies and resonates with success. 

“As we continue on this journey, we embody the essence of persistence, and we truly 'Expect to Win.”

Expect to Win!

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