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What is Discipline?

What is discipline?

Here at True Balance Karate in Downers Grove, Illinois, we have a social-emotional learning program called True Character. I’m Master H, 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.

Last month, we focused on goal setting, and discipline is a crucial element in achieving those goals. For younger students, we define discipline simply as: I do what needs to be done before I play. This helps them understand the importance of completing responsibilities before engaging in leisure activities. For example, they need to clean their room before watching TV or playing with toys.

What isn’t discipline?

Sometimes, it’s helpful to teach discipline by showing what it isn’t. If a child is supposed to clean their room but is instead watching TV, ask them calmly, “Is this what we’re supposed to be doing right now?” This encourages awareness without anger or frustration. Over time, this builds a strong understanding of discipline.

Discipline plays a vital role in achieving goals like earning a black belt. Life’s challenges—changing grades, new jobs, or distractions—can easily pull us away from our objectives. But with discipline, such as consistently attending classes or sticking to a schedule, we keep moving forward, learning, and growing.

Tips to Maintain Discipline:

  1. Set Timers: Using a timer can help stay focused on tasks. For example, set a timer for completing chores and challenge yourself to finish before it ends.
  2. Write It Down: Keep your goals visible—post them on the fridge, your bedroom door, or even the bathroom mirror. Seeing them daily helps reinforce focus.
  3. Break Goals Into Steps: Divide goals into smaller steps. Celebrate each step by removing a post-it or checking off a task to visually see your progress.
  4. Stay Accountable: Share your goals with someone who can help keep you on track.

Discipline means staying focused and committed to your goals, despite distractions or obstacles. This month, we’ll explore how discipline helps in teamwork, maintaining focus, and reaping the rewards of persistence.

Remember, I do what needs to be done before I play.

Thanks, and I’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!