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The Quiet Triumph of Self-Discipline With Each Feat Empowering the Next
Takeaways from years as an overcomer and champion of feats of success
In former times, I used to think that willpower was something you either had or you didn’t.
Some people were born with an ironclad resolve, while others seemed just along for the ride.
However, as I reflect on the past few years, having quit smoking, given up coffee, and lost a significant amount of weight, I’ve come to realize that self-discipline isn’t a trait you’re born with; it’s a skill you develop.
The Appeal: Instant Gratification
In our fast-paced world, instant gratification is the common condition for most of us. Want a snack? It’s in your hands within minutes.
Need a pick-me-up? A cup of coffee is just a few steps away
As I began to peel back the layers of my habits, I realized they were rooted in deeper patterns. They served my needs for stress reduction, for control, for energy regulation.
Instead of reacting impulsively, I started asking myself, was it the relief I sought, or the ability to transform the discomfort?
I learned to deal with temptations by waiting them out, regarding them as passing impulses that did…
