Motivation is a tricky, finite resource. It comes and goes without warning. Some days,

you wake up ready to take on the world. Other days, it feels like you’ve been hit by a

train, throwing you off your routine for days. So, how can we stay motivated every day

of the year? The honest truth is, we can’t. Motivation is unreliable, and it alone won’t

solve our problems. So, how do we really stay on track? This is where discipline steps

in to save the day. Discipline is what keeps you moving toward your goals, even when

you don’t feel like showing up. Stay consistent, and the results will follow.

Discipline, by definition, is the ability to show up even when you don’t feel like it. It’s

understanding that the work must be done, or you risk disappointing your future self.

Here’s a tip: treat yourself like your own boss. When you think of your goals as

commitments to yourself, it’s easier to stay accountable. You wouldn’t blow off a

meeting with your boss, right? So, why treat yourself any differently?

Resolutions also serve a similar purpose. Don’t think of them as a “to-do” list. Instead,

consider them a guide, a framework for growth. They don’t have to be perfect or overly

ambitious. A resolution is simply a steppingstone to your next action. For example,

instead of saying, “I’ll get in shape,” try something more direct and manageable, like, “I’ll

take a 30-minute walk every other day.” Simplicity is key. Remember, resolutions are

allowed to evolve as your circumstances change. The important thing is to keep moving

forward. Progress happens when you’re trying, not standing still.

Honestly, I’ve rarely accomplished every resolution I’ve set for myself. And you know

what? That’s okay. Life happens. Unexpected challenges can set you back, but

setbacks aren’t failures; they’re opportunities. Use them to take a step back, look at the

bigger picture and figure out your next move. The key is to keep showing up, learning,

and trying again. Be kind to yourself. You’re doing the best you can with what you have,

and that’s more than enough.

So, what now? After hearing the truth, how can you begin to make sense of your own

discipline and resolutions. Take a moment to think about what really matters to you. Is

there something you’d like to work toward. Write it down. Document it in a way that

resonates with you, whether that’s a journal, a vision board, or even a simple note on

your phone. It doesn’t have to be perfect or fully mapped out. Set an intention and take

one small step toward it. That first step might lead you somewhere you never expected,

and that’s a step worth taking.