At first glance, self-discipline might seem the exact opposite of personal freedom. Discipline
often brings to mind the idea of punishment—if you don’t follow strict rules, you’ll face
consequences. This association makes it hard to see how discipline can lead to more liberty
and freedom.
However, unless your idea of embracing free will means being lazy and lethargic, you
probably have achievements and experiences you want to realize. These aspirations add
purpose to our lives. They are tied to our values and belief systems, influencing our daily
decisions.
Self-Discipline and Personal Freedom: The Parental Example
To understand how self-discipline can lead to more personal freedom, look no further than
everyday heroes: moms and dads. Parents sacrifice their lives for their children’s betterment,
showcasing incredible self-discipline. Given the freedom to make choices, parents discipline
themselves so their needs and desires take a backseat to those of their kids.
This example of self-discipline results in the freedom of choice and a more fulfilling life.
Parents experience immense joy and happiness by freely accepting a disciplined life where
their children’s needs come first.
Long-Term Rewards of Self-Discipline
Consider a young man who crunches the numbers and realizes that he can retire much earlier
than most people by devoting himself to his job for the next 15 to 20 years. His disciplined
approach promises him decades of personal freedom and autonomy.
Embracing a disciplined life doesn’t have to be unrewarding in the short term. This man
planning for early retirement is happy because he knows he’s following a plan that offers
substantial long-term benefits.
Sacrifice for Short-Term and Long-Term Personal Freedom
Discipline and sacrifice go hand in hand. For example, an intelligent eater opts for healthy
alternatives over junk food. This choice rewards him with excellent physical and mental
health. He sacrifices the short-term pleasure of fast food for the long-term benefits of a
healthier diet.
Self-discipline can be your key whether you’re looking for short-term rewards or long-term
fulfilment. You might need to adopt habits and behaviours that require sacrifices, but these
choices can lead to personal freedom in areas important to you. Achieving goals through
sacrifice for long-term rewards starts with implementing small habits.
