Photo by Victor Freitas on Unsplash
It’s been said that the average New Year’s resolution lasts less than 4 months, with the majority falling short just two weeks into the new year on the so-called “Quitter’s Day”. So here we are, at the end of month four, that pivotal point in the year where winter is officially over, spring is mostly here, summer is on the horizon…and resolutions have been abandoned.
This doesn’t pertain to ALL resolution-makers, but it got me thinking about why so many fail. Was the goal too lofty? Did they lack motivation or discipline? And what’s the difference between the two?
Motivation and discipline are two distinct but interconnected concepts, especially when it comes to achieving a goal or completing a task.
Motivation: Motivation refers to the internal or external factors that drive individuals to take action, set goals, and pursue certain outcomes. It's the inspiration or desire that propels someone to start or continue a particular activity. Motivation can come from various sources, such as personal values, passion, external rewards, or the pursuit of personal growth. While motivation is essential for initiating action, it can be fleeting and may vary based on emotions, external circumstances, or other factors.
Discipline: Discipline, on the other hand, is the ability to control one's behavior, stay focused on tasks, and follow through with commitments, even in the absence of immediate motivation. Discipline involves consistency, self-control, and the establishment of routines or habits to ensure that goals are consistently pursued. It's the capacity to adhere to a plan or a set of rules, even when faced with challenges or when motivation is low.
Successful individuals often find a balance between staying motivated and implementing disciplined habits.
While motivation can kickstart actions, discipline plays a crucial role in maintaining consistency and overcoming obstacles. They understand that relying solely on motivation may not be sustainable, and discipline is necessary for achieving sustained progress. Both aspects are important for personal and professional success, and individuals often benefit from cultivating a healthy combination of motivation and discipline in their pursuit of goals.
Recognize that there is no need to wait until next year to create a resolution. Make a commitment, or a re-commitment, and remember that both motivation and discipline are key ingredients in achieving success!
Written by: Emily Henion, Search Consultant at Hunter Crown, LLC
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