Goals and Discipline...

Jim Collins, author of the book, Good to Great, states in his latest book, Great by Choice, “discipline, in essence, is consistency of action. Consistency with values, consistency with long-term goals, consistency with performance standards, consistency of method, consistency over time... True discipline, fanatic discipline, requires the independence of mind to reject pressures to conform in ways incompatible with values, performance standards, and long-term aspirations.”

I thought that this applies well to the goal-setting exercise that I discussed earlier. Setting goals gives you a great opportunity to teach discipline, for the two go hand-in-hand!  I think the key part of this quote is, “..independence of mind to reject pressures to conform in ways incompatible with values, performance standards, and long-term aspirations.” Wow, how important is it to teach kids to reject pressures to conform in ways incompatible with values? The earlier that we can teach this principle, the easier it will be or your teens to deal with peer pressure later in their lives. Discuss this with your child today and maybe write this quote down and keep it where your children can see it each day!

Another quote that comes from the same book that also applies to goals is one from hockey great, Ray Bourque: “Goals live on the other side of obstacles and challenges. Along the way, make no excuses and place no blame!” Spoken like a true hockey player! Good luck with your goals!