Discipline is defined as “a link between goals and accomplishments. Establishing authority over one’s habits, routines, and priorities.” But what does this really mean?

Discipline means doing something over and over again until you succeed. You will not be successful doing something only once. Discipline means that you keep your head high and try again and again, especially in the beginning when you do not see any results. After all, if it was easy, you would already be where you want to be.

There are two illustrations of discipline that resonated with me. The first was based on a book: “212° The Extra Degree” is a motivational book by Sam Parker that emphasizes the significance of pushing oneself beyond the extra mile to achieve success. The title refers to the temperature at which water boils – a mere one degree difference from 211°F to 212°F, yet it transforms water from hot to boiling, producing steam and immense energy. Parker uses this metaphor to illustrate the impact of that extra effort – or discipline, in other words – which can make a crucial difference in various aspects of life, including personal growth, career advancement, and relationships. So many times we give up when we reach 211°F because we do not see the results want, just one degree away from success.

The second was also based on a book: “Atomic Habits” by James Clear. In “Atomic Habits,” the concept of ice melting at 32°F as an illustration of the power of small, incremental changes in habit formation. Clear emphasizes that habits are often formed gradually, much like how ice transforms into water at the critical temperature of 32°F. Initially, the ice seems unaffected by small increases in temperature, but once it reaches the tipping point of 32°F, a significant transformation occurs, and the ice begins to melt rapidly. This analogy highlights the importance of consistency and persistence in habit-building – and discipline – as small actions may not seem impactful at first, but they accumulate over time to produce substantial results.

Whether your discipline runs hot (212°F) or cold (32°F), it is important to continue pushing through when you feel like nothing is happening. You might just be only a single degree away from success.