In this modern generation, most people, especially youngsters, seem to fancy instant gratification more than delayed gratification. Why? Something about getting things done quickly and enjoying the benefits right away appeals to most. Yet, against all odds, one question is worth pondering: would you choose to grind today and celebrate tomorrow or submerge yourself in delight today and regret tomorrow?
The truth is, when one aims for success in whichever field they choose, there is no such thing as achieving it in one snap of a finger. To some degree, they need to go through a certain level of pain or discomfort to reach a certain maturity, which can eventually lead them to success. In our lives as humans, we are bound to experience pain sometime. However, the type of pain you’ll experience is determined by your action and inaction today.
Discipline VS. Regret
Jim Rohn once quoted, “We must all suffer from one of two pains: the pain of discipline or the pain of regret. The difference is discipline weighs ounces while regret weighs tons.” Discipline is a complete must to achieve a healthy and balanced life. It is an exercise or activity that develops or improves a particular skill. An act of discipline is also a form of training, which is an overly optimistic aspect of one’s life. Although, some people get intimidated when they hear the word “discipline” since they believe it entails some punishment as part of the drill.
Nevertheless, without discipline comes regret, a heavier burden that creeps in later when things become almost irreversible. One can only suffer the pain of regret until they decide to let go and start over with a clean slate. This brings them back to square one, which could’ve saved them time and suffering if they had chosen the pain of discipline in the first place.
It all starts with the small things.
Going through self-discipline is no walk in the park, so you will need momentum to become more productive. And to gain such momentum, you only need to act. Start from the minor things like:
· Getting out of bed
· Taking a shower
· Putting your phone away
· Going for a quick jog
· Grabbing a good book that inspires you to do better
More often than not, our minds need a quick little nudge to get it running, so take some time to think. It will be an excellent opportunity to sort out what you need to accomplish to achieve your goal. You may also create a checklist to keep you on track.
Food for thought: A few bad habits regularly done over time may lead to regret. Regret may be viewed as the “unwelcome reward.” So, avoid it at all costs and take the more challenging yet more secure path of discipline.
The pain that nobody wants
Since discipline doesn’t sound sweet to some people, and living their lives without having self-laws, spending without proper plans of investing for the future, getting distracted when they should be working, etc. sound more convenient to their ears, then these people are sure to live a life of regret.
While our body is still strong and able in our youth, and yet we don’t set aside anything for our older and weaker selves, who and what will we fall to? The bitter truth is that not everyone we call “friends” is genuine; they may be our friends today and may desert us tomorrow. The pain of regret is the worst, mainly because, most times, there is no undoing.
Therefore, even when both discipline and regret require pain, choose the one that will get you a better place and give you gratification, even when it is delayed. Don’t let your lifestyle today rob you of your future enjoyment. It is better to pay the price today than to pay it at an old age. The ball is in your court.
