Ups and Downs with Discipline
Gains and Losses with Discipline
Here at True Balance Karate in Downers Grove, Illinois, we have a social-emotional learning program called True Character.
I’m Master H, the owner and chief instructor here at the studio. I have two master’s degrees in education, and we’ve developed this curriculum to meet the needs of our youngest students, who are three or four, and our oldest student, who is 85. This month, we are talking about discipline.
“I do what needs to be done before I play.” There are gains and losses when we are disciplined.
If we don’t show discipline, we lose a few things. When we’re not disciplined, it means we’re putting off the fun time because we’re not focused and not getting our work done. It takes longer to finish tasks, which delays the time when we can relax and enjoy ourselves.
When we’re not disciplined, we might feel like we’re missing out. For example, you can’t go do something fun because your tasks aren’t done. Maybe there are other consequences when we don’t show discipline. If we’re asked to clean our rooms and don’t do it, it’s still a mess, and now someone is upset with us. If we’re asked to finish a project at work and don’t meet the deadline, there might be repercussions like a write-up, a discussion with the boss, or losing their respect.
When we’re not showing discipline, there are losses—whether they’re external consequences or internal feelings of missing out, losing motivation, or letting others down.
But what are the gains?
Our gains include a sense of pride from completing what needed to be done. The task is finished, and we don’t have to worry about anyone bothering us about it. Deadlines aren’t looming, and no one is upset with us. There’s positivity and harmony.
When we’re disciplined with schoolwork, we get good grades. When we’re disciplined at work, we may earn more projects, a raise, or a promotion. There are clear positives when we focus and complete our tasks before taking time to relax and play.
As we wrap up this month, I challenge you to think about the positives you’ve experienced from practicing discipline at home, school, or work. Write down those positives to remind yourself why discipline is valuable.
It’s a good thing to set a timer and work diligently. It’s positive to make a list and check off tasks. Find the best way to stay focused before enjoying your reward.
Our actions have consequences—positive or negative. It depends on how we approach and show discipline before those consequences occur.
I hope you’ve enjoyed our talk on discipline. Thanks, and we’ll see you on the mat!
True Balance Karate was founded in 2012 by Master Sue and Paul Helsdon.
We offer kids karate lessons for pre-school children ages 3-6 and elementary age kids ages 7 and up. These lessons are designed to develop the critical building blocks kids need — specialized for their age group — for school excellence and later success in life.
Our adult martial arts training is a complete adult fitness and conditioning program for adults who want to lose weight, get (and stay) in shape, or learn self-defense in a supportive environment.
Instructors can answer questions or be contacted 24 hours of the day, 7 days a week at 630-663-2000. You can also contact us here. True Balance Karate is at 406 Ogden Ave Downers Grove Illinois, 60515 (next to CVS) Check out our Facebook!
