|
Definition of Discipline
Sunday June 17, 2007
By: C. Zach Hidalgo |
 |
1: punishment
2 : instruction (obsolete)
3: a field of study
4: training that corrects, molds, or perfects the mental faculties or
moral character
5 a: control gained by enforcing obedience or order b:
orderly or prescribed conduct or pattern of behavior c: self-control
6: a rule or system of rules governing conduct or activity
Above is the definition Merriam
Webster (m-w.com) offers for
the word discipline.
The meaning or definition of
discipline depends on the way the word is to be used (the context).
This essay will define
the word discipline not as punishment but as control.
A Skill
An interesting thing about discipline is that discipline is not
inherent in human beings. Discipline is a skill. A skill is learned and
developed throughout a lifetime. It's something that requires regular
practice to achieve a specific level of perfection.
For example, an
infant doesn't know they can walk until they are encouraged and empowered.
In most cases it's only after the suggestion that an infant will
begin their trek down the road to their first step—literally and
figuratively.
Anyone can choose to be more disciplined in a given area or subject. It's
a matter of making the choice and implementing that decision...which is
sometimes easier said than actually done.
I suspect more than half the battle is simply making the decision to
commit.
The Musician
A qualified musician is an excellent example of someone who has
disciplined themselves to master a subject. Again, in almost every case, a
good musician has spent countless hours behind the piano, embracing their
guitar or holding that clarinet.
Mathematics
Mathematics is also considered a discipline. Anyone can become
proficient and an expert in mathematics if they discipline themselves and
take the steps necessary to educate themselves.
Math is one of those subjects that many people dislike primarily because
they have to practice discipline by learning the rules, the exceptions and
work out problems.
Literally everything prefers the path of least resistance and humans are
no exception. Even the electron moving at the speed of light through the
wires in your home would rather pick the shortest path to their eventual
destination in your radio, computer or television.
Ancient History Book
An ancient history book mentions how it is the wicked who do
not practice discipline. Therefore the previous sentence indirectly states
that it is someone who is not wicked that practices discipline.
It is the child that is not taught discipline that becomes the troublesome
brat that many would prefer not to be around. It is that brat that grows
up lonely and hateful, despising others because they don't cater to their
wants and needs.
I only mention that brat because I know someone who is definitely not
disciplined (as if I am) and hates everyone and everything. I'm convinced
it's because they are not even remotely interested in being disciplined
about anything, and it shows in the way they act and react to things.
I don't mean to pass judgment on this person, but I am making a statement
about the person based on observation, which I am qualified to do because
I know this person very well.
Discipline:
-
does not come easily and must be earned
-
is developed over time
-
requires constant and regular practice
-
can be difficult
-
can be frustrating
-
will pay-off in the long run
-
can offer many benefits to the individual
-
builds-up a person in countless ways
-
benefits others indirectly (the reference to the brat)
-
is a valuable personality trait
-
will increase your confidence
-
aids in decision making
-
in most cases is more than obvious to others
-
helps retain and maintain personal relationships
-
will distinguish you as different from other employees at work
-
will assist in any learning process
-
will help in organization
The Pursuit
Pursuing discipline all though out life will benefit you as an
individual in many ways. You'll find that more people will rely on your
opinion, your thoughts and your suggestions because they'll notice you're
more disciplined than the average person.
Your decisions will carry more weight. Your added confidence will
encourage you and those around you.
Center Of Influence
Those who choose to discipline themselves in one or several
subjects usually become what is known as a “center of influence.” When a
person becomes a center of influence, they usually have one or several
people who make it a point frequent their company, usually for a specific
reason. Respect abounds and and honor usually follows.
Balanced Relationships
When a person finally commits to disciplining themselves in a
subject of their choice, the learning experience usually carries over to
other parts of their life. Relationships are usually one of the first
aspects of life where there is a noticeable difference...for the better.
Work habits usually increase and academic improvement usually occurs as
well.
Favor
It's not uncommon to receive favor from an employer,
supervisor, instructor and other people in authority over you after making
a commitment to pursue a discipline of some sort.
Planning, Organizing, Implementing
Discipline will heighten your ability to not only plan, but
organize and eventually implement. Many people can plan. Many people can
organize and some people can actually implement, but few can do all three.
When a person is familiar with what is expected of them after committing
to a discipline, they're more apt to be in a position where they can take
on the task of planning, organizing and implementing a program, event or
activity.
Leadership
A disciplined person is often found in a position of leadership
after others notice they're different. Sometimes is shortly after they
commit, sometimes is years after, but it usually happens.
Hardship
Discipline is not an easy road. If fact it's usually
frustrating and difficult for a great part of the experience. Discipline
is a fight. It's for that reason many don't make the effort or attempt the
pursuit.
Summary
Discipline can also be defined as punishment, but that sort of
discipline is usually for a good reason. The person who deserves
punishment probably needs discipline in their life to correct.
Discipline is a choice. Discipline is a commitment. Discipline is
separation from the average, the mediocre, the norm.
To act, to take advantage of the benefits of discipline is to make a good
decision.
Just make sure what you commit to is ethical and moral, or everything I
just mentioned does not apply and is null and void.
|
