Chapter 1: The Essence of Discipline

Success is something you earn, not something handed to you.

This morning, I woke up at 4 AM, unable to settle down. My mind was racing with countless thoughts—ideas, to-do lists, and innovative concepts. I mentally crafted at least five comprehensive articles before even getting out of bed. Sadly, those eloquent thoughts vanished before I could jot them down.

This is a common occurrence.

By 5 AM, my mind was fully alert, and hunger pangs began to set in. Returning to sleep felt impossible. I decided to head downstairs, spending a few moments outside while enjoying the birds' morning melodies, pondering how to start my day. I've made strides in improving my morning routine recently.

Before I dive into work, I make sure to finish some form of exercise such as:

• Zumba
• Brisk walking
• Yoga or Pilates
• Skincare routine

These practices have significantly boosted my productivity, focus, and work ethic. Today, however, I went straight to my computer since I couldn't exercise early without disturbing my mom, who is a light sleeper.

I've come to terms with the fact that it's perfectly fine to deviate from your routine at times (as long as it's reasonable and you stay somewhat aligned—does that make sense?). The key is having the discipline to incorporate those activities into your day at some point, which I intend to do.

Life is dynamic; you must adapt or risk falling apart.

Over the last few months, I've experienced numerous small victories, often only noticeable in hindsight. Remember to celebrate those baby steps! Since leaving my full-time job, my most significant achievement has been developing discipline.

Writing is one of my greatest passions, but I used to push myself to the point of burnout. During my second bout with COVID in December, the last thing on my mind was writing. My creativity was non-existent, partly due to being unwell, but mostly because I felt I had nothing worthwhile to express.

Eventually, I found a healthy balance. Now, I can enjoy weekends without guilt, even if it means stepping away from writing. I plan and schedule my content in advance and take lunch breaks, even if I often resist leaving the work zone.

I’ve learned that success doesn’t occur overnight. I assert myself in ways I wouldn't have previously, trying new things and accepting the risk of looking foolish—that's how we grow.

Being disciplined across various aspects of my life has dramatically improved my well-being, and I notice this in subtle ways.

I start my day by making my bed (one of my first tasks).

I nourish my body with wholesome, organic foods (even when I crave pizza, ugh!).

I diligently take my vitamins and prioritize self-care, even on days when I'm exhausted or pressed for time.

Even small actions like wearing my retainer, which I despise, are part of my commitment, especially after enduring four years of braces.

I've learned a lot about enhancing my quality of life from my boyfriend, Dimitri. As a bodybuilder, his level of discipline is remarkable, and it has influenced me significantly.

The way I approach writing mirrors his workout routine: we just do it. Regardless of how tired we are or how lengthy our to-do lists become, if you desire something strongly enough, you’ll make it happen.

Tasks expand to fill the time you allow them to take, or so the saying goes (perhaps I’ve got that mixed up, but you catch my drift).

We can all conjure up excuses, as it’s quite easy to do so. I'm not denying that there are valid reasons why something may seem unfeasible or impossible. I understand that.

When I was employed full-time, I found myself neglecting Medium, as my mind struggled to engage creatively. I was burnt out and, by the end of the day, all I could manage was to watch TV (my favorite soaps, of course).

This was due to being overworked, uninspired, utterly drained, and lacking time for breaks (I even worked Saturdays from 7 AM to 4 PM—way too much).

So, I made a change.

I know, that sounds easier said than done, but it’s always achievable. There are countless possibilities and paths available to us. We often overlook this because society conditions us to adopt a certain mindset: work hard now and save for retirement, looking forward to the weekends.

Well, I’m done with that mindset.

I study millionaires closely; they captivate me. It's not envy—it's admiration. Through observing their behaviors and lifestyles, I learn far more than you might think.

Discipline is a common thread among many entrepreneurs, regardless of their field. One of my favorite examples is Cassey Ho, the founder of Blogilates and one of my top YouTubers.

Her story is remarkable. Coming from an immigrant family, she faced pressure to pursue a career in medicine or law, which left her feeling trapped and unhappy. She discovered her passion for Pilates while working as an instructor at her university's gym and quickly fell in love with it.

Before long, she launched a YouTube channel, and through consistent effort, she went viral. Today, she is a world-renowned and incredibly successful Pilates instructor—well-deserved recognition.

Cassey also runs a successful fashion line, fulfilling a childhood dream. Her fitness apparel is functional, sustainable, and high-quality. She even designed yoga mats and fitness gear that recently launched at Target.

Additionally, she has an adorable cartoon on social media platforms and is a prominent influencer across the board.

I've been following Cassey for at least five years. She has challenged me through her workouts, and I feel a genuine connection to her (is that strange to say?).

Her discipline is truly inspiring.

Sure, she has a substantial team to manage her growing brand, but she started alone and persevered, even when her parents disapproved of her decision to not pursue medical school.

Cassey embodies passion and dedication in her work. Her attention to detail and relentless output are astounding.

And she's only 35!

Whenever I feel like giving up, I think of Cassey. She empowers me in unique ways, reminding me that my aspirations for financial independence are entirely attainable.

All I need to do is make it happen.

In what ways do you find the motivation to maintain discipline despite obstacles and achieve your goals?

For more inspiration, visit my new blog, Live Life Now✨