Discipline Vs. Motivation

Leadership requires a balance between motivation and discipline.

D. Brown Management Profile Picture
Share

These are two very different things and if you are relying on motivation to keep you going it is likely that you will come up short on long-term goals.  Motivation is momentary and fleeting while discipline is something that gets you by every day, hour and minute marching towards your goals even if life knocks you off your course some.

Leadership Tools: Discipline vs Motivation. Quote: Self discipline is the root quality that will improve every aspect of your life. Jocko Willink. Book: Extreme Ownership by Jocko D Willink and Leif Babin

A quote I heard that resonated strongly with me was: “Motivation is doing what NEEDS to be done when you WANT to do it.  Discipline is doing what NEEDS to be done when you DON’T WANT to do it.” 

These reinforce each other and often you start to become more excited (motivated) to do something when you become good at it.  On the other hand it’s hard to become truly good at something without a lot of disciplined practice including many failures!  

Justin Martin has this quote on his office wall right next to the door so you see it when you are leaving:

"Today I will do what others won't so tomorrow I can do what others can't."

Justin Martin

Books:


Learn More




Management Accountabilities: Two Foundational Basics
Managers have two basic foundational accountabilities. The first is delivering consistent outcomes given the inconsistencies of the inputs, people, and environment. The second is developing people at all levels into their fullest potential along the way.
Market Forces - Surviving vs. Thriving
Construction contracting is a highly competitive business in a rapidly changing market. The “Invisible Hand” of the market is constantly demanding that construction projects are delivered:
Technology Systems – Seeing the Whole Picture
Construction technology systems from infrastructure through specialty applications are complex. Understanding all the major pieces, how they integrate, and how they help you achieve your strategy is critical for all levels of leadership.