For most people, the word "discipline" has an immediate negativeconnotation. It implies something imposed from the outside,doesn't it? It means that someone or something is controlling ordemanding, neither of which are particularly appealing. When wedo think about self-discipline, it, too, often has a negativespin because it is seen as difficult and contributing tofailure. Can you think about it differently?

Self-discipline is nothing more than keeping your commitments toyourself. If you say something is important and significant toyou, then take this little test:

Does that something that you SAY is important show up asignificant number of times in either your calendar, or yourcheckbook, or both? If it does not, then, where is thedemonstration that it is important to you? Do you regularly dowhat you say has value to you?

I'm sure you understand the picture. I believe behavior, notwords. How about you?

So, self-discipline arises from self-esteem and self-esteem isenhanced by self-discipline. Then, it seems natural that youtake a look at your self-esteem. Do you believe that you areworth spending the time and/or money on? Do you get the"left-overs" of time and resources rather than filling your owncup? It is not unusual to feel that you are being a "good"person when you are self-sacrificing. That's because our societyoften tells us this is so. Oh, good thinking! The society saysso because everyone else benefits from your self-sacrifice. Infact, "sacrifice" itself is an interesting concept. Thedictionary says it means "the act of giving up or destroying onething for the sake of something else".

Do you really want to be SELF-sacrificing?

Rhoberta Shaler, PhDKeynotes, Seminars & Coaching for entrepreneurs & professionalswho want the motivation & strategies to achieve, to lead and tolive richly. Creator of the Living Richly? Program Host of Living Richly? on www.wsRadio.ws. Author of OPTIMIZE Your Day!Practical Wisdom for Optimal Living Optimize Life Now! San Diego, CAwww.OptimizeLifeNow.com