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116 Days ago
You do not have to want to ...
Every now and then, someone tells you something that just stays with you. My dad told me something years ago that falls into that category. The statement was profoundly simple and I will never forget his words. It was early June 1970, I was 11 years old and had just finished 5th grade. I was excited about summer vacation for all the normal reasons, one of which was the fact that I was finally old enough to earn some extra money mowing the lawn. And boy was it fun, at least for the first two weeks and then not so much. The novelty wore off pretty quickly and by early August I told my dad that I didnt want to mow the lawn anymore. He responded by saying, Son, you dont have to WANT to mow the lawn, you just have to do it. What could I say? There was no counter. All that I could do was to shrug my shoulders and then go start the mower.
As an adult, I cant tell you how many times I have used that line. You dont have to WANT to do it, you just have to do it. I have used it with my martial arts students as well as my own children, but most importantly, I have used it with myself. Unknowingly, Dad had summed up in a practical, easy to understand statement, the true meaning of self discipline. After all, what else is self discipline other than doing what you dont want to do but know you should?
So the next time you find yourself thinking I dont want to do this remind yourself that you dont have to WANT to do it, and then take action. Ive got to go nowthe lawn is calling my name. Happy mowing!
5/17/2010 2:40:15 PM
i should remember this one for when i have kids
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5/17/2010 3:57:24 PM
Thanks for sharing! I will remember this one as it will come in handy as my daughter is nearing the teenage years.
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5/17/2010 9:44:12 PM
A great way to explain self-discipline.
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5/17/2010 11:42:20 PM
Great thing to remember as I do have a teen in the house! Thanks for sharing!
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