Self-discipline is an essential trait required to accomplish goals. Through self-discipline, you’re able to stay motivated and focused on the efforts that lead toward the life you desire.

Many people believe self-discipline is for the select few in sports or business. But the truth is anyone can build their self-discipline muscle. The more you exercise it, the stronger it gets. In my short training video, I shared practical ways to build self-discipline to achieve your goals.

So, what is self-discipline?

I like to describe it as a form of self-love. It’s choosing to do what is best for you in spite of your own feelings. It allows you to dismiss instant pleasure for long-term gain – that is, self-love.

In this article, we look at the following common habits of self-disciplined people that distinguish them from the 80 percent of the population who struggle in this area.

1. Take small steps

Self-disciplined people realise that taking small steps is key to success. If your goal is to save $10,000 in one year, you should start by saving the $20 you usually spend on coffee every day. If your goal is to lose 10kgs, you start by committing to losing 1kg per week.

Focus on small steps to make changes in your life, and they will lead to extraordinary results.

2. Embrace discomfort

Building self-discipline isn’t easy. Think about weightlifters at the gym. It takes time for them to strengthen their body muscle. Each day they must face the discomfort of joint pain and possible bruising. Likewise, self-disciplined people embrace the discomfort of saying no to a piece of cake or waking up at 6 am to exercise.

The discomfort is temporary. Soon you will enjoy the success that comes from pushing yourself and staying committed to your goals.

3. Block time in your calendar

Self-disciplined people don’t let life happen to them. They plan and organize their lives by blocking times throughout the day. Time blocking ensures you don’t miss the opportunity to focus your efforts on what you want to achieve. For instance, if losing weight is a goal, block time in your calendar to exercise. If spending time with your family is a goal, block time in your calendar for family activities.

You can also block times for activities that generally take up too much of your time. For instance, if scrolling through social media is your weakness, you can block 15 minutes every day at 19h00 to go through your feed. This means you focus on other essential activities in the day.

4. Track progress

At the end of each day or week, self-disciplined people take the time to track their progress. There’s no point in putting effort to work on your goals if you can’t track the progress – no matter how small.

If you’re planning to save money and choose to make lunch at home instead of buying food at work, that’s progress. And it’s worth noting.

This leads us to the last habit.

5. Reward effort

Research shows that celebrating and rewarding small wins is a great motivation booster. Self-disciplined people recognize their efforts and reward themselves for them.

A reward doesn’t have to be extravagant or undo all your efforts. If your goal is to lose weight and you go a week without consuming sugar or carbs, you may choose to reward yourself with a massage at the spa instead of a burger from McDonald’s.