A Simple Hack When it Comes to Discipline
Discipline has been the cornerstone of my life, pulling me out of chaos and toward stability and success. It is as steady for me as my heartbeat. From the gym to my breathwork practice to how I nourish myself, I show up to the practices that keep me well with purpose and unwavering consistency. As I grow older, however, I've come to realize that the ways I care for myself go beyond discipline – they are acts of devotion. To myself, to my longevity, to every possibility available to me in this life. And I wonder if that shift in perspective might be a game-changer for those who are turned off by the idea of “discipline.”
The term "discipline" works for me. It gets me up in the morning. It fuels my habits. It feels like the home I created for myself. But I realize for people with different life experiences and associations, “discipline” might evoke feelings of restriction and punishment. Of militant behaviors, pass/fail judgements and even shame.
Devotion though? That’s love and dedication.
Devotion doesn't bend under the pressures of daily life. It’s not dependent on mood or weather. It’s steadfast as a value, not as a rule. It’s more invocation than list. More poem than spreadsheet.
Discipline gave me safety, devotion gives me a relationship with myself I can rely on. I show up for myself not out of obligation but out of unconditional care.
Words matter. The next time you are taking on a new goal, play with devotion. What are you devoted to? What does it mean to show up in a way that embodies devotion? When you look at how you currently prioritize yourself in your life– are you the subject of your own devotion? Why or why not?
If you’re looking for support in the way you care for your body, mind and spirit, I would love to talk with you. I am currently open for new 1:1 clients and I love helping people discover this kind of devotion toward themselves. Fill out this form below and I’ll get back to you ASAP.
