143: Discipline is NOT About Willpower

In this episode, Dr. Steve and his wife discuss the true meaning of discipline and why it’s not about willpower or grit. They share how creating systems in your daily life can make healthy habits easier and more sustainable. You’ll learn how to eliminate decision fatigue, replace bad habits with better choices, and why planning ahead is key to success. They emphasize starting small, focusing on one goal at a time, and avoiding the trap of "white-knuckling" through your efforts.

 

[00:01 - 06:38] Understanding True Discipline

Discipline is not about willpower; it’s about creating systems that support your goals.

Discipline is a learned skill, not something you are born with.

You should design your environment to make good habits easier and bad habits harder.

Pre-planning your routines eliminates decision-making, helping you stay consistent.

 

[06:39 - 14:11] Creating a System for Change and Planning Ahead

Identify the habits you want to change and create a plan to replace them.

Use your calendar to plan ahead and eliminate decision fatigue.

Gradually replace bad habits with better alternatives instead of quitting abruptly.

Structure your environment and routines to make positive habits automatic.

 

[14:12 - 25:20] Simplifying Decisions and Small Steps to Change

Make one key decision to eliminate multiple daily choices, like avoiding manmade food.

Plan your meals in advance to reduce decision fatigue and ensure healthier choices.

Take small, gradual steps toward your goals instead of trying drastic changes all at once.

Follow a plan consistently and don’t rely on feelings or motivation to make decisions.

 

[25:21 - 33:19] Trusting Your Plan and Taking Action

If you find yourself debating your decisions, you don’t have a good plan.

A system should make actions so easy that it’s harder not to follow through.

Focus on one goal at a time and implement it consistently to build confidence.

Use tools like calendars and reminders to keep your system on track and avoid distractions.

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Tweetable Quotes:

“Discipline is not about willpower, and it's not about grit. In fact, if you have to white-knuckle something, that is not what discipline is.” - Dr. Steve Hughlett

“ Discipline is not something you’re grown with, you're born with. This is something that you, mentally come up with a process to take care of things.” - Dr. Steve Hughlett

“If you don't have a system, if you don't have discipline, that's gonna suck for the rest of your life.” - Dr. Steve Hughlett

“If it's exciting, then you're not disciplined.” - Dr. Steve Hughlett

“When you're disciplined, you wanna make it so much easier to do what you should do. And hard to do the things that you shouldn't do.” - Dr. Steve Hughlett“If you have to use willpower to get through something, that's not a system; that's not discipline. That's ego.”  - Dr. Steve Hughlett

 

Disclaimer:  The information provided on this channel/podcast/publication is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet, exercise routine, or medications.