"There is a certain combination of desire and discipline in the way I work. Discipline by itself simply is not enough in the creative process." - Robert De Niro
Many of us think of discipline as a highly positive characteristic. When we fail to keep our resolve to take the actions that lead to success, we point to our lack of discipline with regret and disappointment.
Human beings really like the focus and structure of imposing discipline on themselves to achieve specific outcomes. But discipline implies that you have to push through something unpleasant to achieve the outcome you are after. Pain, suffering and struggle seem to be present when we invoke discipline. Most of all it takes mental self-control to be disciplined.
Desire is also a powerful force. When you are clear about what you desire and what the payoff is for accomplishing it, then you will be drawn to it and will take the required actions without the pain involved in discipline. With desire you experience the outcome even before you achieve the result. Desire is stronger than wishing or wanting. It is the ingredient that kick-starts discipline.
This week take at least one resolution you made for the New Year and clarify what it is you really desire by making that resolution. Imagine the joy of having that desire fulfilled and focus on that. The discipline to keep that resolution will fall naturally into place without effort.
