Being Disciplined
that’s runnable
The 30th Edition of your favourite Running Newsletter
A quick read of insightful tips and thoughts to help you with your running.
Are you scared of the word “discipline”? Does it carry negative associations? This week, we’re talking about one of the most important aspects of keeping to your New Years goals.
Something to Think About 💭
What if discipline wasn’t just about obeying rules, but about keeping the promise you made to yourself. Perhaps discipline is more about self respect than it is about punishment.
Something to Ask Yourself ❓
When you think about discipline, do you think of it negatively or do you think of the potential on the other side of keeping to your promises?
Article of the Week 📄
This week’s article “8 Proven Self-Discipline Exercises To Reclaim Your Best Self” explores how self-discipline, akin to a muscle, can be strengthened through targeted exercises. It talks about the importance of consistency, perseverance, and focus in building self-control and offers practical strategies.
By delving into the science of willpower and providing actionable steps, this article serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to boost their self-discipline and achieve their long-term goals.
Track of the Week 🎶
I used to be really into Thirty Seconds To Mars (in my most rebellious years 😅) so when I put them on, it gets me hyped and makes me feel 15 again.
This week’s Track of the Week, from the album This is War is:
Kings And Queens by Thirty Seconds To Mars (2009)
Personal Lesson
Growing up, I thought “discipline” was a dirty word. To me, it meant rules that didn’t make sense, authority figures telling me what I couldn’t do, and time spent in detention to prove my point. I was suspended three times in school, not for anything awful, just for refusing to follow what felt like pointless restrictions. I didn’t see the value of discipline; I only saw it as a force working against me.
It wasn’t until I became an adult that I realised I’d misunderstood it all. Discipline isn’t about punishment or control, it’s about freedom. It’s the tool you use to unlock your potential, not something holding you back. Now, I see self-discipline as my ally, especially in running. Whether it’s showing up for a long run when I’d rather stay in bed, sticking to a strength training routine, or pacing myself in a race, discipline helps me stay consistent. And you know what I think about consistency… That’s where the magic happens. (see the 6th Edition).
The same kid who thought rules were the enemy now uses self-discipline as a to keep him sane. Funny how life works, isn’t it? I once got a birthday card that said, “to be old and wise, you must first be young and dumb”.
Running – Life’s Metaphor
Self-discipline in running requires consistent effort, patience, and the ability to push through discomfort to reach our goals. Just like in running, life often presents challenges and setbacks, but staying disciplined allows us to keep moving forward, improve over time, and ultimately achieve what we set out to accomplish.
Final Thoughts
Discipline in running isn’t just about the big, impressive milestones. It’s built in the small, daily decisions we make. It’s choosing to lace up on a cold morning when no one’s watching, saying “no” to the snooze button, or sticking to your plan even when it feels tough. These moments may seem insignificant on their own, but together, they create the foundation for something great.
With every choice, you’re proving to yourself that you’re capable of consistency and growth, and that’s where the real transformation happens.
The power of discipline goes far beyond just running. It builds mental resilience, strengthens your confidence, and creates a mindset of perseverance that you can carry into every area of your life.
Next time you face the choice to follow through or not, remember: the discipline you cultivate today is the strength that will carry you through tomorrow. Cheesy… but true.
Thanks again for reading and subscribing.
Run the runnable, and keep showing up for yourself!
Tommy 🙂