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How can you develop self discipline?

07/28/25 4:36pm

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Eden Gold
Youth Motivational Speaker and Teen Life Coach

07/28/25 4:37pm

To develop self-discipline, you have to sacrifice short-term comfort for long-term benefit. Start by identifying your biggest goals and dreams. If money or time weren’t a constraint, what would you want? Be a visionary. I call this crafting your “dream machine.” When you visualize your dreams, your brain starts to form new neural pathways. It doesn’t know the difference between imagination and reality—so start thinking big.

A key thing to ask yourself is: "Do I really want this goal?" Be honest. A lot of people think they want something because it’s trendy, their friend has it, or their parents expect it. But if it’s not truly your goal, you’re going to give yourself permission to quit. Procrastination is real, especially for the neurodivergent community, but aligning your goals with what you genuinely want—free from outside voices—helps a lot.

Then ask: "Why do I want this?" You need a reason that truly motivates you. “I want to get healthy so I look better” isn’t strong enough, but “I want to get off thyroid medication. I want to walk a mile without getting winded. I want to be there when my kids graduate,” are powerful, emotional reasons that will get you out of bed. Only 1% of people write down their goals, but doing so clears mental space and helps you visualize and remember your why.

Remember, motivation isn’t given—it’s created. It’s a byproduct of taking action. Most people love learning, but we need to become obsessed with uncomfortable action instead. Taking action, especially uncomfortable action, builds confidence and momentum. That’s where your growth lives. A good journaling prompt is: "What thoughts, behaviors, or actions are no longer serving my life?" Be honest. Start there.

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