Discipline is Freedom

“Only the disciplined ones in life are free. If you are undisciplined, you are a slave to your moods and passions.”- Eliud Kipchoge

A few years ago, my life felt desperate and chaotic. I was working full-time at a job that was draining, had two small kids with special needs, and wasn’t yet prioritizing my health and wellness. Every morning was a frenzy, every day was agonizingly long, and every evening I was too tired to do much except sit on the couch.

Starting a fitness regimen taught me that being disciplined about my eating gives me more time in my day. Turns out, cooking eggs or oatmeal on the stove is actually less time-consuming than the drive-through. Being disciplined about packing my lunch gives me more money to use for fun things rather than gross cafeteria food. Being committed to trying healthy foods has introduced me to new foods I like and expanded my repertoire of cooking. When I have a bad day and seek ‘comfort’ from food, my commitment to my long-term health often wins over my short-term desire and I can avoid a junk food binge.

When I started exercising, I realized that carving out 45 minutes a day to workout makes me more energized and productive for the rest of the day. I stay on top of laundry because I want to be able to wear my favorite outfits to the gym. I keep my house clean because it means I can spend less time cleaning and more time exercising.

Being disciplined about my fitness means I have the freedom to move my body in new and exciting ways: I can ride my bike for hours on a summer day, wear a bathing suit confidently at the pool, or meet my friends at the gym for a class and know I’ll be able to keep up. I recall a conversation with a friend a few years ago who mentioned she won’t travel in an airplane because she can’t fit well in the seat, which limits her ability to travel entirely. The same friend also has to miss days with her family at a theme park because she can’t fit into the seats of the roller coaster. When you’re pursuing a fit life, there are new options for date nights besides “Netflix and chill”. I can try rock-climbing with my brother when he’s in town, and I’m excited to take my kids hiking at Zion national park. Shopping for clothes is fun!

Another favorite quote is from Abraham Lincoln: “Discipline is choosing between what you want now and what you want most.” I want the freedom to move my body more than I want a quick fix from eating junk food. I want a life of bike rides, hikes, and mobility more than I want a life of Netflix.

Discipline is not a chore, it’s a life of freedom.