One day, as I was thinking of some different areas that frustrated me about my life, I came to a startling conclusion. Many of my so-called problems were simply a lack of self-discipline. I made a little list of improvements to incorporate. Maybe something here will help you, too. These may seem
oversimplified, but sometimes I need to get back to simplicity!
1. Regular Bedtime and Wake-up time.
When I work during the week, I am forced to comply with this. But as a teacher,
being home for the summers, it gets a little out of control. The first thing I
know, I'm up till 3:00 in the morning on the computer and sleeping till noon.
Then I'm frustrated because the cool early morning hours are gone, and I'm doing
laundry and housework late into the evening.
2. A Healthy Eating and Exercise Plan
Make sure you check with your doctor on this one. A lot of times we just need to have some self-control when it comes to these issues. But it will make a huge difference in how you feel and function.
3. A Prioritized To-Do List
It always helps me to start the day with a written list. It keeps me focused,
helps me to prioritize, and gives me the satisfaction of seeing what I've accomplished. When I don't make a list, I tend to waste a lot of time in the day.
4. Don't Procrastinate
Here's a biggie. How often have you moped around doing everything but a certain chore you had looming over you? You simply didn't want to do it. I've done that many times. What helps me is to admit to myself that I don't want to run that errand, take care of that business matter, or do that dirty job. So I just make up my mind to do it first and get it out of the way. Then it's done, and you have the peace of mind that it is behind you.
5. Start the Day with Prayer
Personally, when I start the day with prayer and Bible reading, the whole day goes better. I have the peace of mind that my family is under God's protective covering, and the day has begun with guidance from Him.
As a teacher, and as a parent, I'm always impressing the need for self-discipline on the youth I mentor every day. It's time I applied those principles to myself.
Jessica Gerald has been an elementary school teacher for over thirty years and is the publisher of the website http://www.oldfashionedhomemaking.com.
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