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Definition of Discipline
Sunday June 17, 2007
By: C. Czach Hidalgo |
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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:
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does not come easily and must be earned
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is developed over time
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requires constant and regular practice
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can be difficult
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can be frustrating
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will pay-off in the long run
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can offer many benefits to the individual
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builds-up a person in countless ways
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benefits others indirectly (the reference to
the brat)
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is a valuable personality trait
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will increase your confidence
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aids in decision making
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in most cases is more than obvious to others
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helps retain and maintain personal relationships
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will distinguish you as different from other
employees at work
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will assist in any learning process
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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.
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