I am not a big believer in self-discipline. When I have achieved things that others might attribute to self-discipline, it has been through simply doing what brings me joy. Back in the 1980s I had been struggling to give up drugs and alcohol for years. I had been trying to do what I thought I should do, despite what I wanted to do. As long as those two impulses were both present, I would fail at my attempts at self-discipline. Trying to do what I do not want to do is nearly impossible for me. But once I realized that living a clean and sober life give me great joy, it was easy to to what gave me joy.
Increasing the amount of time I spend writing, meditating and running is in the same category. I am finding these activities give me great joy, so I am drawn to them. I think this is related to the old chestnut, "Do what you love, and the money will follow." When I do what I love, it comes naturally.
So this morning I am headed to the gym to run on the treadmill. I used to think it would be terrible drudgery, but now I realize it gives me great joy.
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