Do you wish you had more self-discipline? If you do, you're not alone. Research shows that a massive 97 per cent of us wish we were more and duties more carefully and consistently. In essence, most of us wish we had more grit. More self-discipline. But is this lauded trait really all it's cracked up to be? A growing body of research suggests otherwise.
Defining self-discipline
Self-discipline is defined as "the ability to control one's feelings and overcome one's weaknesses". Sounds great in theory, right? If only we could motivate ourselves to effortlessly choose a salad over a pizza or resist hitting the snooze button when we made an internal agreement to head to work early the night before.
Self-discipline is, supposedly, the skill that helps us solve all these problems, enabling us to choose our long-term aspirations over our short-term desires. But, left unchecked, too much self-discipline can turn ugly.
Self-discipline or self-punishment?
We all have internal monologues that accompany us throughout the day. Our mind is essentially a radio, broadcasting thoughts and ideas into our consciousness 24/7. With high levels of self-discipline, we can choose the thoughts and ideas we react to proactively.
Say, for example, you really don't feel like working on your side hustle at the end of a long working day. You're unmotivated and tired, and turning on Netflix is a much more appealing idea. In circumstances like these, self-discipline would, theoretically, help you overcome these urges and stick to your original plan. But here's where the risk lies. Too much self-discipline - too much sacrificing our in-the-moment needs and desires can lead to depression, anxiety and even burnout.
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة Issue 208 من WellBeing.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك ? تسجيل الدخول
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة Issue 208 من WellBeing.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك? تسجيل الدخول
SKY WALKING
Explore the untamed beauty of the Gondwana Rainforests, where pristine pockets of wilderness beckon with thundering waterfalls, misty forest trails and encounters with rare wildlife.
Unleash your sense of adventure in Shoalhaven
You won't fully appreciate the sheer size of the Shoalhaven region until you immerse yourself in its hidden treasures such as Jervis Bay, Huskisson, Berry, Mollymook and more.
Plyometric tennis flow
Low-amplitude plyometric training is the number-one reason why tennis players' bodies remain strong, resilient and injury-free well beyond their 40s. This versatile workout regimen can be performed anytime, anywhere. Simply find a court summon your determination and get moving
YOGA TO CONQUER THE FEAR OF DEATH
In a world of constant change, there's one immutable truth we all share: our inevitable encounter with death. Despite its universal presence, fear of mortality abounds, subtly shaping our lives and decisions. Through the lens of yoga and mindfulness, we discover pathways to confront this fear, unlocking a profound sense of peace and purpose in our existence.
LOOKING BACK, MOVING FORWARD
Nostalgia is often touted as an unhelpful emotion, but recent research suggests reminiscing about the past can enrich our present and guide us towards a more fulfilling future.
ANCIENT wayfinders
Amid modern challenges, indigenous wisdom may offer a path to healing. From fostering community bonds to embracing spiritual connections with nature, we explore the enduring relevance of ancient wisdom in today's world.
COMMUNITY & COOPERATION in the cost-of-living crisis
In the face of escalating living expenses and economic uncertainty, embracing mutual-aid initiatives and community-driven solutions can alleviate financial strain and foster resilience in times of need.
On the men you
Finding your personality revealed in the foods you choose from a menu might seem like a piece of New Age flummery, but there is research suggesting that your food choices might reveal more about you than you suspect.
Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatus)
Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse with many sustainable healing benefits.
Green Beat
All the latest in environmental issues