Page 102 - South Mississippi Living - January, 2020

FINANCE & FITNESS
P eople often ask me, “What’s the hardest part
about losing weight?” The truth is, losing over 100 pounds in a year is not nearly as hard as keeping it
off for 10+ years. It’s easy to get motivated for a goal, but to stay focused and actually achieve it is a different story.
Ask most people and they will tell you motivation
is what gets you started and discipline is what keeps you going. Motivation is a feel-good drug, kind of like singing karaoke after a couple of drinks...but would you do it sober?
Let’s get real for a minute. Are you physically and mentally capable of doing the task without motivation? Yes! It’s just easier on the drug
of motivation. Jim Rohn famously said, “Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.”
Discipline is that dirty “D” word
because as children we associated
discipline with being in trouble. It has
a negative connotation, but honestly, discipline is one of the most rewarding practices you will ever have in life. Here’s why: Discipline leads to results, which
builds confidence that turns into motivation. It’s a cycle that, if implemented, will change your life.
Robby
102 | January 2020 D’Angelo | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living
THE DIRTY “D” WORD:
Motivation Versus Discipline
story by Robby D’Angelo
photo courtesy of Robby D’Angelo
5 STEPS TO TURN MOTIVATION INTO DISCIPLINE:
1. Figure out why you want to do this in the first place. What is the reason you are wanting to change?
2. Stop looking for the magic pill, shortcut or easy way out. Whether it’s saving money every month or finally losing that weight that has plagued you five New Year’s resolutions in a row, you’re going to have to make a plan and do the work.
3. Set small goals. Don’t try to change your entire life overnight. If your goal is to lose weight, start with a 10-minute walk a day. If your goal is to save
money, then cut out one meal at a restaurant a month and save that $50 dollars.
4. Acknowledge the wins! Would a baby ever learn to walk if
they stopped trying after the first fall? So why do you beat
yourself up every time you fall? Try this: actually,
congratulate yourself on what you’re doing right. 5. Surround yourself
with other winners. Pull yourself away from environments that aren’t motivating you.