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9 powerful ways to cultivate extreme self-discipline.

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“The first and best victory is to conquer self.” ~ PLATO

Learning to effectively lead yourself and others all comes down to discipline. Happiness, success, and fulfillment stem from focus and self-control. It may be hard to believe when you’re facing an all-you-can-eat buffet, the prospect of making a quick buck, or the lazy lure of sleeping in versus getting on the Peloton, but studies show that people with self-discipline are happier. Why? Because with discipline and self-control we actually accomplish more of the goals we truly care about. Self-discipline is the bridge between goals defined and goals accomplished .

Chapter Eight of my new book - Embrace the Suck: The Navy SEAL Way To An Extraordinary Life - is titled ‘Win More Through Discipline And Accountability.’ People with a higher degree of self-control spend less time debating whether to indulge in behaviors and activities that don’t align with their values or goals. They are more decisive. They don’t let impulses or feelings dictate their choices. They are the architects of their own beliefs and the actions they take to achieve a desired outcome. As a result, they aren’t as easily distracted by temptation and tend to feel more satisfied with their lives.

“You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” ~ MARCUS AURELIUS

There are specific strategies you can execute to learn self-discipline and gain the willpower to live a happier, more fulfilling life. If you are looking to take control of your habits and choices, here are the eight most powerful things you can do to master self-discipline—which is imperative for life beyond your comfort zone—and maybe even redefining “extraordinary.”

STEP ONE: Know your strengths and weaknesses.

We all have weaknesses. Whether they’re the desire for alcohol, tobacco, unhealthy food, obsession over social media, or the video game Fortnite (what the heck is with this game by the way?!), they have a similar effect on us. Weaknesses don’t just come in the form of areas where we lack self-control either. We all have our strong suits and the stuff we kind of stink at. For example, I don’t care for having difficult conversations, lengthy paperwork that involves digging up old documents I never saved in the first place, holding my temper when someone is shooting at me, or calling into automated phone systems. And therefore, I used to actively (or purposefully) avoid these activities. Now, I strive to tackle them head-on—or I delegate them to others. (Never forget about the subtle art of delegation!)

Self-awareness is a powerful tool for comfort zone expansion, but it requires constant focus and acknowledging your shortcomings, whatever they may be. I suffered from bad allergies and asthma growing up and had terrible eyesight. Those were some significant weaknesses when considering becoming a Navy SEAL. But so what? I trained hard to improve my lung function and used money I’d saved for LASIK eye surgery. Too often people either try to pretend their vulnerabilities don’t exist or they succumb to them with a fixed mindset, throwing their hands up in defeat and saying, “Oh well.” Know your strengths, but more importantly, own up to your flaws. You can’t overcome them until you do.

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STEP TWO: Remove temptations.

“I can resist anything except temptation.” ~ OSCAR WILDE

Like the saying goes, “out of sight, out of mind.” It may seem silly, but this phrase offers powerful advice. By simply removing the biggest temptations from your environment, you will greatly improve your self-discipline. When I decided I was going to pursue the lofty goal of becoming a SEAL, everything in my life had to change. If you want to eat healthier, toss the junk food in the trash. Want to drink less? Throw out the booze. If you want to enhance your productivity at work, improve the management of your To-Do’s, turn off social media notifications and silence your cell phone. Prioritize and execute.

The fewer distractions you have, the more focused you will be on accomplishing your goals. Set yourself up for success by ditching bad influences.

STEP THREE: Set clear goals and have an execution plan.

If you hope to achieve greater degrees of self-discipline, you must have a clear vision of what you hope to accomplish, just like any goal. You must also have an understanding of what success means to you. After all, if you don’t know where you are going, it’s easy to lose your way or get sidetracked. Remember to prioritize. At TakingPoint Leadership, when we work with our corporate clients on strategic planning, execution, and organizational transformation, we remind them that having ten priorities translates to no priorities.

A clear plan outlines each time-bound step you must take to reach your goals. Create a mantra to keep yourself focused. Successful people use this technique to stay on track, emotionally connect to their mission, and establish a clear finish line.

STEP FOUR: Practice daily diligence.

We aren’t born with self-discipline; it’s a learned behavior. And just like any other skill you want to master, it requires daily practice and repetition. It must become habitual. But the effort and focus that self-discipline requires can be draining. As time passes, it can become more and more difficult to keep your willpower in check. The bigger the temptation or decision, the more challenging it can feel to tackle other tasks that also require self-control.

So, work on building your self-discipline through daily diligence in a given area associated with a goal. This goes back to step three. In order to practice daily diligence, you must have a plan. Put it on your calendar, your to-do list, tattoo it on the back of your eyelids - whatever works best for you. With practice, anyone can push the boundaries of their comfort zone every day.

STEP FIVE: Create new habits and rituals.

Acquiring self-discipline and working to instill a new habit can feel daunting at first, especially if you focus on the entire task at hand. To avoid feeling intimidated, keep it simple. Break your goal into small, doable steps. Instead of trying to change everything at once, focus on doing one thing consistently and master self-discipline with that goal in mind.

As we say in the SEAL Teams, “ Eat the elephant one bite at a time.”

If you’re trying to get in shape but don’t exercise regularly (or ever), start by working out ten or fifteen minutes a day. If you’re trying to achieve better sleep habits, start by going to bed thirty minutes earlier each night. If you want to eat healthier, change your grocery shopping habits and prep meals ahead of time. Take baby steps. Eventually, when your mindset and behavior starts to shift, you can add more goals to your list.

STEP SIX: Change your perception about willpower.

If you believe you have a limited amount of willpower, you probably won’t surpass those limits. As I mentioned previously, studies show that willpower can deplete over time. But what about changing that perception? The SEAL candidate who believes they probably won’t make it through training won’t succeed. Why assume our will to win can only take us so far?

When we embrace the mindset of unlimited willpower, we continue to grow, achieve more, and develop mental toughness. It’s the same philosophy as setting “stretch” goals. In short, our internal conceptions about willpower and self-control can determine how disciplined we are. If you can remove these subconscious obstacles and truly believe you can do it, then you will give yourself an extra boost of motivation toward making those goals a reality.

STEP SEVEN: Give yourself a backup plan.

In the SEAL Teams, we always have contingency plans. Psychologists use a technique to boost willpower called “implementation intention.” That’s when you give yourself a plan to deal with a potentially difficult situation you know you will likely face. To be clear, I am not referring to a backup plan under the auspices that you’ll probably fail at Plan A.

Let’s say you aspire to become a trapeze expert, but tell yourself, “Well, I’m probably not going to excel at this, so chances are I’ll be sticking with miniature golf.” That’s a lame backup plan wrapped in mediocrity. We are talking about contingencies for intentional course correction, not planning for failure. So be bold and keep moving forward. Going in with a plan will help give you the mindset and self-control necessary for the situation. You will also save energy by not having to make a sudden decision based on your emotional state.

STEP EIGHT: Find trusted coaches or mentors.

The development of expertise requires coaches who are capable of giving constructive, even painful, feedback. Real experts are extremely motivated students who seek out such feedback. They’re also skilled at understanding when and if a coach or mentor’s advice doesn’t work for them.

The elite performers I’ve known and worked with always knew what they were doing right while concentrating on what they were doing wrong. They deliberately picked unsentimental coaches who would challenge them and drive them to higher levels of performance. The best coaches also identify aspects of your performance that will need to be improved at your next level of skill and aid you in preparation.

STEP NINE: Forgive yourself and move forward.

Even with all our best intentions and well laid plans, we sometimes fall short. It happens. You will have ups and downs, great successes and dismal failures. The key is to keep going. A very close SEAL buddy of mine has had a lifelong dream of not just serving in the SEAL Teams but also making it to our tier one special missions unit. He has every qualification this unit could possibly want, but for some reason they didn’t select him on his first application attempt. Did he wallow in sorrow? Not for one second. He immediately developed a plan to request even more “schools,” train even harder, and he transferred to a different SEAL Team for a better chance to get picked up next time. Easy day.

If you stumble, find the root cause by asking the five WHY’s and move on. Don’t let yourself get wrapped up in guilt, anger, or frustration, because these emotions will only drag you further down and impede future progress.

Learn from your missteps and forgive yourself. Then get your head back in the game and violently execute. Good luck!

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How to Be More Disciplined

Ariane Resnick, CNC is a mental health writer, certified nutritionist, and wellness author who advocates for accessibility and inclusivity.

10'000 Hours/DigitalVision/Getty Images

Self-discipline is the ability to control your behavior in a way that leads you to be more productive and/or have better habits. It is proven to lead to increased success. Learning self-control and discipline early in life is helpful for decades to come, but it is never too late to learn how to improve your self-discipline so that your future can be a better one.

If you've experienced frustration around having a lack of attention span , not achieving goals , or not knowing what to do with your life , you may be struggling with self-discipline. It takes some time to become more disciplined, but it's worthwhile!

How to Improve Your Discipline

Wondering where to begin? Let's break down how to become more self-disciplined step by step. You'll begin by discerning how you work best—and worst—and by the time you get to the final step, you should see significant improvement in your level of self-discipline.

For this process, you might want to use a journal to write out your answers to questions and to keep track of your progress as you go.

Discern How You Struggle—And How You Strive

Figuring out what does and does not work for you is key to understanding how to be more self-disciplined. Some people thrive when working around others, while some do better working alone. Some people are motivated by rewards, while others prefer consequences to keep them in line. That's called "carrot versus stick." Answer the following questions for yourself so that you can become clued in about what you need in order to succeed at self-discipline:

• Does being around other people distract me or help me concentrate?
• Do I feel more productive performing tasks inside or outside?
• Does the idea of a reward for a job well done motivate me?
• Does the idea of taking away a privilege or treat for not following through on a job motivate me?
• Do I like to think about big picture goals or visualize small steps?
• What do I see as my biggest blockages from being more disciplined?
• What stops me from achieving my goals?

Once you've answered these questions, you should have a clearer idea about the right approach for you and your needs. next, you want to understand why discipline is important to you.

Know Your "Why"

We all have ideas that motivate us, but it's easy to lose touch with them. This is the opportunity for you to get in touch with your "why." Your "why" is your reason for wanting to achieve self-discipline. Do you want to make lots of money? Help humanity? Save animals? Explore your big life goals on a broad scale so that you get back in touch with why self-discipline will benefit you, and why you need it.

Clarify Your Goals of All Sizes

Now that you understand why self-discipline is important to you, what exactly do you want to achieve? Note big large and small goals: This can include everything from big steps in your career to small daily habits like taking walks more often. People who write down their goals are more likely to achieve them. The act of writing down your goals can also help you to get excited about them.

Be sure to include small goals that you can accomplish easily with discipline, rather than only large goals that take a long time to achieve.

Once you have clarified your goals, write down some preliminary habits you can use to achieve them. For example, if you want to go for a walk daily you could set an alarm for a certain time. if you want to make sure you get more work done, you could choose times of day to review your progress. Set small, regular reminders to keep you on track about your goals.

Find Accountability

Sharing your goals with someone you respect is directly correlated to a better chance of achieving them. Some people may share this with a mentor, but even telling a friend whom you have respect or admiration for will work.

It can be a simple as letting your friend know that you have decided to work on your self-discipline in general, or you can share some of your goals with them. The act of sharing about your journey will help you commit to it more strongly, in addition to improving your chances of succeeding.

Remove Distractions

You can't get distracted by something that isn't there, so the best way to handle distractions before you begin trying to be more disciplined is to remove them. If you pause working or studying to watch tv, put the remote in a different room.

If you tend to drop what you're doing to look at your phone, give it to a family member for a few hours at a time. If you eat a lot of junk food and you want to stop, don't keep it in your house. This step sets you up to succeed, instead of fail.

Start Small

Don't begin your daily work with self-discipline by trying to achieve something huge. This will take too much time to keep you on track and motivated. Instead, work on daily, weekly, and monthly goals. Acknowledge every day when you do what you set out to do, and know that it is moving you in the right direction.

Building new habits takes time. Every day that you do something, you are one step closer to it being a habit, and after awhile, it will become much easier and more second nature to you.

Forgive and Reward

Because we are all human, perfection isn't possible. We all make mistakes, and that's ok! When you behave in a way that isn't aligned with your quest to become more disciplined, forgive yourself . Review why and where things went wrong, and if possible, change your environment so that it doesn't happen again.

Even if you're more motivated by consequence than by rewards in general, it's important to acknowledge your milestones. Reward yourself in a way that involves self-care , because you deserve it and because it will help you stay on track. As much as it can be easy to let the little accomplishments slide, it's important to keep track of them and reward them because when you add them up, they become big accomplishments.

Review and Expand Your Goals

Every so often, you'll want to review you progress and your goals. Goals change over time, so you want to keep an open mind about what yours were previously and how they may have shifted since you first noted them. Additionally, stepping back from your situation allows you to view just how much you've accomplished!

Look back on how you've succeeded with your self-discipline, as well as areas where you still need to improve, and plan out the steps to take to continue on your path. Initially, you might want to do this once a week. As you become more and more adept at discipline, though, you can do it progressively less often.

Practice, Practice, Practice

You can only win if you don't give up! Self-discipline can take some people their entire lives to master, so don't be down on yourself if it's slow going at first. Keep at it, and if your goals all feel too big, make up some very easy small ones so that you can experience the feeling of success.

The more you practice self-discipline, the easier it will become. Eventually, you won't have to practice it at all. It will become a natural habit, and your days of feeling undisciplined will be far in the past.

Benefits of Being More Disciplined

There are many benefits to achieving a stronger level of self-discipline. These are some of the most common ones.

• More control : Having self-discipline enables you to have more control over your own life. You're taking charge and improving yourself to be the best you possible, and this can lead to an increased self of control.
• No more procrastinating : exercising self-discipline means that you're taking action. This means you aren't spending as much time procrastinating. In turn, you can get more done, and spend less time stressing over getting things done.
• More satisfaction : increasing your self-discipline means you get more done, and that in turn means that you may end up more satisfied with what you do.
• Goals get met : rather than just thinking about your dreams, you're living them! Self-discipline lets you do whatever is needed to accomplish your goals.

A Word From Verywell

If you're still feeling uninspired to begin improving your self-discipline even though you want to, you might be having an issue with motivation. Learn about what to do when you're having difficulties motivating, and how to overcome that.

Muraven M. Building self-control strength: practicing self-control leads to improved self-control performance. J Exp Soc Psychol. 2010 Mar 1;46(2):465–8. doi:10.1016%2Fj.jesp.2009.12.011

Lifelong impact of early self-control [Internet]. American Scientist. 2017

Share your goals – but be careful whom you tell [Internet]. Share your goals – but be careful whom you tell.

By Ariane Resnick, CNC Ariane Resnick, CNC is a mental health writer, certified nutritionist, and wellness author who advocates for accessibility and inclusivity.

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Essay on Discipline: Sample Essays of 100, 200 & 400 Words

• Updated on  
• Apr 24, 2024

Discipline is something that assists in keeping a person in control. According to Merriam-Webster ‘Discipline is control gained by enforcing order or obedience ‘. It also refers to orderly conduct or pattern of behaviour. Discipline motivates a person to progress and eventually achieve success. Hence, it is important. There are two types of discipline- induced discipline and self-discipline. An essay on discipline is usually given as a task in a school. Hence, we have provided sample essays on discipline in 200 words, 300 words, and 400 words. Keep reading to know more about the same.

To improve your essay writing skills, here are the top 200+ English Essay Topics for school students.

Table of Contents

• 1 Essay on Discipline (100 Words)
• 2 Essay on Discipline (200 Words)
• 3 Essay on Discipline (400 Words)
• 4 Short Essay on Discipline
• 5 10 Lines on Discipline
• 6 Quotes on Discipline in Students Life

Essay on Discipline (100 Words)

Master the art of essay writing with our blog on How to Write an Essay in English .

Essay on Discipline (200 Words)

Also Read: Essay on Christmas: 100 – 150, 250, and 500 Words

Also Read: Essay on Politics in 500 Words

Essay on Discipline (400 Words)

Short essay on discipline, 10 lines on discipline.

Also Read: Essay on Neeraj Chopra in English for School Students

Quotes on Discipline in Students Life

While writing the essay on disciple a student can include popular quotes. It can make their essays stand out. Moreover, reading quotes on discipline can inspire a student to be disciplined in their life, 

• What lies in our power to do, lies in our power not to do.”– Aristotle
• Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.”– Jim Rohn
• “There is no magic wand that can resolve our problems. The solution rests with our work and discipline. ”Jose Eduardo dos Santos
• “Self-respect is the fruit of discipline; the sense of dignity grows with the ability to say no to oneself.”– Abraham Joshua Heschel
• “For a man to conquer himself is the first and noblest of all victories. ” Plato

Also Read: Essay on Technology

An essay on discipline talks about the importance of discipline in a person’s life. A disciple is something that keeps each person in control. It motivates a person to achieve success in their life.

Discipline means being consistent, and following the set rules or order. AA disciplined person will follow the written and unwritten rules. There are several unwritten rules in schools. A disciplined student will follow the written and unwritten rules.

A school discipline essay contains the introduction, body, and conclusion, A student needs to include the importance of discipline while writing the essay.

Check out our Popular Essay Topics for Students

Discipline refers to an orderly conduct or pattern of behaviour. It involves following the rules in a school or an organization. Self-discipline is also important for success in life.

For more information on such informative essay topics, visit our essay writing page and follow Leverage Edu .

Blessy George

Blessy George is a Content Marketing Associate at Leverage Edu, boasting over a year of experience in the industry. Her expertise lies in crafting compelling content tailored to online courses, making her a go-to source for those navigating the vast landscape of digital learning. In addition to online classes, she writes content related to study abroad, English test preparation and visas. She has completed her MA degree in Political Science and has gained valuable experience as an intern.She is known for her extensive writing on various aspects of international education, garnering recognition for her insights and contributions. Apart from her professional pursuits, Blessy is passionate about creative writing, particularly poetry and songwriting.

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How to Improve Self-Discipline

Author brian tracy offers suggestions—plus yes-ands and yes-buts..

Posted December 15, 2021 | Reviewed by Davia Sills

• Some people do well to block out 15 minutes a day toward achieving an important goal that could otherwise be left undone.
• A potent tool for growth: Meet regularly with a trusted person for a half-hour a week in which you discuss each other's goals.
• Make it harder to do what you're trying to avoid.

Brian Tracy has written 80 self-help books with a core interest in self-discipline. He distills his advice on that in a video: 5 Hacks to Improve Self-Discipline This Year.

Here are those five tips plus my yes-ands and yes-buts.

1. Try time-blocking

"Set aside 15 minutes a day to work on your goal. Treat it as any appointment and show up on time…. After one month, you'll have spent seven hours on your goal."

The question is, how to motivate yourself to do it and stay with it? Might it help to write it in your daily calendar, say for just two days? That's not much of a commitment, yet perhaps enough time to help you decide whether it's worth calendaring it for at least one more day.

Or if your goal doesn't feel compelling enough to do even that, maybe you need a different goal. Perhaps something bigger, like a change-the-world goal. Or something smaller and more surely doable, like cleaning your home 15 minutes at a time, so you can feel better about yourself, thereby be more likely to accomplish other things, or so you feel okay about inviting someone over.

2. Get an accountability partner

"Someone who will check in with you periodically, and you can check in with them to help them with their goal. Many of us find it easier to let ourselves down than to let someone else down."

But what if you don't have a viable such partner? People often feel that way because they'd be embarrassed to ask someone. Might you not feel embarrassed if you frame it as, "We all like to grow, and I believe in co-mentoring. Because I respect you, what do you think of our trying a half-hour conversation in which we discuss an issue of yours, and then we discuss one of mine?" Here's more on co- coaching .

Still don't feel like asking someone? Then do you want to try sharing your goal with your social media followers? Just honestly report your progress or lack thereof.

3. Remove temptation

"Remove what will challenge your focus. If you're trying to lose weight, remove unhealthy foods from your home. If you're trying to cut spending, set aside a budget and put the rest in savings."

That can help, but you might more likely keep from buying that ice cream or spending beyond your budget if you create a mantra that reminds you of the key reason you want to achieve your goal. If it's weight loss, is it for your health, attractiveness , or to feel more comfortable in your clothes? If it's spending less, is it to avoid poverty, so you can live consistent with your professed environmentalist/non-materialistic values, or to stop your spouse from guilt -tripping you for overspending? If you want to stop your substance abuse , is it mainly to help your health, relationships, or work life? Try saying your mantra three times in the morning, again at lunch, and before you go to bed.

4. Have an aim, a purpose

That needn't be something earth-shaking—For you, something that big may not feel realistic . My typical client doesn't want to change the world but would be happy living in a decent home with a decent job, raising kids well, giving a little money or time to charity, and having some fun along the way.

So do you have one or more aims, large or small, that feel motivating enough for you to prioritize? If your goal is big, should you break it into baby steps? You might even draw a "thermometer" with the baby steps on the side, which you'd color it in each time you achieved one.

5. Eat that frog

"Tackle your ugliest tasks first. If your start your day with that, the rest will seem easier."

Here, I don't agree. One size doesn't fit all. Morning people who don't have more time-sensitive tasks to do might tackle a frog first. But other people might save their frogs for later in the day when it feels right.

The takeaway

Is there at least one idea here that you'd like to try?

I read this aloud on YouTube.

Marty Nemko, Ph.D ., is a career and personal coach based in Oakland, California, and the author of 10 books.

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How Self Discipline Can Improve Your Whole Life

Most people think of self discipline as something that is only useful in a professional setting. The truth is, though, that better self discipline can improve every aspect of your life. Here are some of the ways that self discipline can help you live a happier and more productive life.

Self discipline is something that many people need to work on. It is all about learning to control yourself and make good decisions. When you have self discipline, you are less likely to give in to temptation or make impulsive decisions.

You can learn and practice self discipline in a number of ways. One way to do this is by setting yourself small goals and then working towards them. Another way to work on self discipline is by using a journal or planner to keep track of your goals and progress. You can also try meditation or mindfulness exercises to help you focus and be in the moment. Some people find that working with a discipline coach helps them get started and keep them on track with improving self discipline.

Some people only exercise self discipline in the parts of their lives they deem as necessities – such as turning up to work on time and getting the job done. But self discipline is a skill that can be applied to every aspect of life. And the rewards can be immense. Here’s how self discipline can improve different aspects of your life.

It Will Help You Reach Your Full Potential

When you have self discipline, you are able to push yourself to achieve things you never thought possible. You set high standards for yourself and then work hard to meet them. This can lead to personal and professional success. It can also help you feel proud of yourself and your accomplishments. Ultimately, it can help you be the best you can be in all aspects of your life.

It Will Help You Achieve Your Goals

Self discipline can help you achieve both short-term and long-term goals. When you have self discipline, you are more likely to stick to your goals and see them through to the end. This is because you are less likely to get sidetracked or give up when things get tough. Whether you want to lose weight, start a business, or save for a house, self discipline can help you achieve your goals.

It Will Help You Be More Productive

Self discipline can help you get more done in less time. When you have self discipline, you are less likely to procrastinate or waste time on things that are not important. This means you can use your time more effectively and get more done. This can lead to greater productivity at work, at home, and in your personal life.

It Will Help You Be Healthier

Self discipline can also help you live a healthier life. When you have self discipline, you are more likely to make healthy choices and stick to them. This means you will be less likely to overeat, smoke, or engage in other unhealthy behaviors. It can also mean you are more likely to exercise regularly and get enough sleep. All of these things can lead to better physical and mental health.

It Will Help You Reduce Stress

Self discipline can also help you reduce stress. When you have self discipline, you are less likely to worry about things that are out of your control. This means you will be less likely to stress about things that you cannot change. This can lead to a reduction in anxiety and a feeling of calmness.

It Will Improve Your Relationships

Self discipline can also help improve your relationships. When you have self discipline, you are less likely to say or do things that you will later regret. This means you are more likely to communicate effectively and resolve conflict in a healthy way. This can lead to stronger and more meaningful relationships. Better relationships could be with your partner, your family members, friends and even your work colleagues.

It Will Help You Succeed At Work Or In Business

Self discipline can also help you succeed at work or in business. When you have self discipline, you are more likely to meet deadlines, stay organized, and follow through with your commitments. This can lead to more success in your career or business. It can also mean you are more likely to get promoted or receive raises and bonuses.

It Will Help You Save Money And Achieve Financial Security

Self discipline can also help you save money. When you have self discipline, you are less likely to make impulse purchases or spend money on things you don’t need. This means you can put more money into savings and investments. It means you’re more likely to make informed decisions about your purchases, and drive money towards things that make sense in the medium to long term, such as investing in your home. This can lead to greater financial security in the future.

It Will Help You Be Happier

Last but not least, self discipline can help you be happier. When you have self discipline, you are less likely to dwell on negative thoughts or engage in self-destructive behaviors. This means you will be more likely to focus on the positive and enjoy your life. This can lead to a greater sense of happiness and wellbeing.

So, as you can see, self discipline can improve your whole life. If you want to be more successful, productive, and happy, then start working on your self discipline today.

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Essays About Discipline: Top 5 Examples And 10 Prompts

Looking for inspiration? Discover our helpful examples of essays about discipline and inspiring writing prompts to guide you in your writing.

The power of discipline is related to extreme focus, self-control and resilience. Having discipline allows people to abide by standards that can help improve their lives.  On an individual level, discipline extremely helps in developing self-control, allowing one to resist present gratifications and achieve something much better in the future.  In the larger society, discipline among members is crucial to maintain good behavior and allow communities to follow rules and achieve common goals. 

For your essay about discipline, take inspiration from our essay examples and prompts below:

1. Is School-Discipline Reform Moving Too Fast? by Wayne D’Orio

2. how self-control can actually unleash your dark side by david robson, 3. physical discipline is harmful and ineffective by eve glicksman, 4. discipline as a vital tool to maintain the army profession by maj. michael petrusic, 5. the key to mental discipline by owen fitzpatrick, 10 writing prompts for essays about discipline, 1. how to build self-discipline, 2. self-discipline as a key to success, 3. review of self-discipline books, 4. discipline in your school, 5. your parents’ discipline methods, 6. what is positive discipline, 7. employee discipline, 8. discipline in ancient civilizations., 9. self-discipline for weight loss, 10. the lack of discipline.

“While some districts were already working to reduce suspensions, the federal push spurred more schools to revamp their disciplinary procedures. So, too, did the growing body of evidence documenting the harm associated with pulling students out of school,”

Schools have been moving back and forth when introducing reforms on discipline. Moving from an extremely tough stance to an extremely lax one, schools continue to find the right balance on how to discipline students both generally and on a case-to-case basis. In between reforms, teachers are in the thick of adjusting their approaches with minimal guidance, creating a bigger mess that drives a high turnover among teachers. 

“…[S]omeone with high self-control is more likely to act ruthlessly when group cohesion starts to fall apart, including times when their own sense of power or authority is threatened, or when they feel in competition with others… If so, we might start to appreciate the people around us who are a little bit less disciplined and agreeable than the rest.”

For decades, self-discipline has been considered an admirable part of good character that should be developed at a young age. But new studies and experiments are showing that being highly disciplined can turn into toxic traits and even encourage immoral acts. Check out these essays about respect .

“Parents who use physical discipline may be teaching their child to resolve conflicts with physical aggression. Researchers found that spanking can elevate a child’s aggression levels as well as diminish the quality of the parent-child relationship. Other studies have documented that physical discipline can escalate into abuse.”

The American Psychological Association (APA) brings to light new evidence that physical punishment can cause lasting harm to children. While spanking gets children’s attention and would stop a wrong deed in an instant, the act bears dangerous effects that stretch up to a child’s adult years. The APA, hence, offers an alternative approach to parenting — one defined by “respectful communication, collaborative conflict resolution and parental modeling.”

“If Army leaders inadequately police misconduct within the force by failing to consider and exercise their range of disciplinary options when appropriate, they will create a perception that the Army is unable or unwilling to address misconduct within the ranks. That perception will both contribute to a culture of impunity regarding misconduct and erode the public’s trust in the Army’s disciplinary systems and its ability to self-police.”

The military has been embroiled in several controversies that make the public suspect a decline in discipline and corrective measures within the army. The essay indeed shows a decline in the use of disciplinary options and takes readers through the reforms and proposed interventions that have emerged to restore civic trust in the military. Check out these essays about competition .

“[Mental discipline] is about making a daily, committed decision as to what you are going to pay attention to and how you are going to think. It is a committed effort to keep using what you learn to maintain a healthy attitude and build the kind of emotions that serve you well.”

Just as the body needs exercise, so does the human mind. Mental discipline is a kind of discipline where you consistently engage in a mental activity that you want to be good at. As strengthening your mind to have discipline takes a lot of practice and will, the essay offers helpful tips.

Read on to see essay prompts on the topic of discipline that can help you:

Achieving self-discipline requires a lot of practice every day. For this prompt, round up first the biggest benefits of developing self-discipline based on what existing studies show. Then, draw up a list of tips on how one can commit to a routine that promotes discipline. Finally, offer some words of encouragement, such as reminding that the small things done every day could build up to something big. 

Theodore Roosevelt once said: “With self-discipline, almost anything is possible.” In your essay, explain why you think people value self-discipline as a hallmark of successful people. Find studies that show links between self-discipline and the achievement of goals and include these in your essay.

If your life has been moved by a book on self-discipline, it might be great to highlight this book in your essay. Describe how the book helped you develop a certain level of self-restraint to delay short-term desires. Elaborate on how it helped you set your sights on the bigger trophy waiting in your future. List down the author’s most helpful tips and don’t forget to include your favorite quotes from the book.

First, define what discipline is for you as a student and the role schools play in developing discipline among the younger generations. Then, highlight the disciplinary strategies undertaken by your school. Elaborate cases in which school suspension is deemed necessary. And finally, provide your own insights on the effectiveness of your school’s discipline strategies and ways in which they can be improved. 

What are your parents’ rules at home and how do they discipline you when you disobey? To answer this in your essay, find out first the different methods of discipline. Then, identify which category best suits your parent’s ways of discipline. Share your inputs as to how your parents’ methods have helped you build discipline. 

Positive discipline moves away from the punishing forms of disciplinary action such as spanking and yelling. First, write about the beginnings of the concept of positive discipline. Then, list down the most common techniques in positive discipline. Cite studies that show how positive discipline compares against punishment-based discipline in effectively changing behaviors. Finally, answer whether parents and schools should start listening more to advocates of positive discipline and why so. 

Having high disciplinary standards is imperative for organizations to maintain stability and productivity. For your essay, delineate first the roles of the human resource unit, managers and supervisors in implementing disciplinary policies and the code of conduct. Then, offer recommendations on how each can improve their roles to consistently enforce rules, ensure due process in disciplinary cases and strengthen the organization’s values. 

In ancient Rome, children endured corporal punishment such as beating and whipping. Research the pros and cons historians discovered from this practice. Investigate what were the kind of people that came out of such childhood during the early civilizations. Finally, find out why corporal punishment has declined since then.

In an age where ordering fast food can be done in a jiffy, many of us have gained the extra pounds that we now regret and badly want to lose. Write a motivational essay on how your readers can keep on track of their fitness journey. Offer tips on how they can change their eating habits to how they can add exercise into their daily routine even if they feel that don’t have time for a workout.

For this essay, point out how a child’s lack of discipline can affect him or her. Segment how these disadvantages appear in three settings or scenarios: home, school and the future. For example, a lack of discipline makes it challenging for children to disobey rules and regulations. If they violate rules repeatedly, the worst consequence could be suspension or even expulsion, depending on the graveness of the misconduct. 

For more writing tips, check out our guide on transition words .Looking for more? Read our guide on persuasive writing .

Yna Lim is a communications specialist currently focused on policy advocacy. In her eight years of writing, she has been exposed to a variety of topics, including cryptocurrency, web hosting, agriculture, marketing, intellectual property, data privacy and international trade. A former journalist in one of the top business papers in the Philippines, Yna is currently pursuing her master's degree in economics and business.

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Essay on Self Discipline for Students and Children

500+ words essay on self discipline.

Self-discipline means self-control, which gives you inner strength and a way to control yourself, actions, and reactions. It is one of the most important and useful skills to achieve success and everyone should possess this quality. Self-discipline comes naturally to some people. And some people can achieve it with some effort. The effort made is worth it as it changes life for the better. It just means exercising self- control. A person who stays in control has the ability to take charge of his/her actions and reactions.

Tips to Achieve Self-discipline

• Set your goals: – The first step towards leading a disciplined life is to set goals. Goals give you a clear idea about what needs to be achieved. One must always set a timeline for your goals. This serves as a driving force and motivates you to work hard. It is a good idea to set both short term and long term goals and create a well thought out plan to achieve them.
• Do meditation:- Meditation is one of the best ways to channel our energy in the right direction. It helps maintain focus, acquaints us with our inner self and furthers better self- control. It is the stepping stone for a disciplined life. Meditating for half an hour every day can help in inculcating self-discipline.
• Set a Routine:- Those who set a routine and follow it daily lead a more disciplined life. It is suggested to list all the tasks that you require accomplishing in a given day. Write them in the order of their priority, set a timeline for each and act accordingly. This is a good way to lead an organized and disciplined life.
• Stay away from distractions :- In this technology-driven world, there are numerous things that can distract us and take charge of our lives. Our mobile phones, television, and chatting apps are some of the new age things that are a big hindrance in practicing self-discipline. No matter how determined we are to study, work or sleep on time, we tend to get distracted at the beep of our phone. Social media platforms, chatting apps and web series are extremely addictive and hamper work. In order to practice self-discipline, it is important to stay away from these distractions. Put your phone on silent or keep it at a distance when you sit to study or work. Similarly, just put your phone away at bedtime and instead pick a book to read.
• Reward yourself :- Reward yourself for every goal you achieve. This will motivate you to work harder to achieve more. This is a good way to trick your brain to inculcate self-discipline.
• Take proper sleep :- You can inculcate self-discipline only when you are well-rested. So, it is essential to sleep for eight hours each night. Maintaining a good sleep cycle is also essential. This means that you should try sleeping and waking up at the same time each day. A power nap during the afternoon can help further.
• Stay Positive : – Many people want to inculcate self-discipline but are unable to because they somehow believe that it is difficult to achieve. They feel that it is too much to ask for and that they shall not be able to practice it. This is the wrong approach. You can achieve anything in life if you stay positive and believe in yourself. So, you should stay positive. It is a pre-requisite for inculcating self-discipline.

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Self Discipline Benefits and Importance

Self-discipline helps you to overcome the bad habits by meditating regularly. It gives you the ability not to give up after failure and setbacks, develop self-control, provide the ability to resist distractions, helps you to motivate yourself until you accomplish your goals.

Achieving self-discipline may be difficult but in order to lead a healthy personal and professional life, it is very important. A self-disciplined person makes optimum use of the time. Hence, he can achieve more and do more work as compared to a person who is not self-disciplined. We should, therefore, make some efforts to achieve it.

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Short Essay: Value Of Discipline

Discipline is a fundamental aspect of successful societies and personal lives, shaping habits, behaviors, and outcomes across various spheres. Writing a short essay on the value of discipline requires a focused exploration of its benefits, applications, and significance. Here’s a structured approach to help you draft a persuasive and insightful essay on this topic.

Table of Contents

Title and Introduction

Title : Choose a title that is both engaging and descriptive, such as “Discipline: The Key to Success and Harmony.”

Introduction : Begin with a compelling statement or anecdote that illustrates the positive impact of discipline in a relatable context—this could be a success story or a historical event. Briefly define what discipline means in the broadest sense, including self-control, orderliness, and adherence to rules and principles. Conclude the introduction with a thesis statement that presents the central arguments of your essay, such as the role of discipline in personal success, societal order, and mental health.

Body of the Essay

Personal Success :

• Paragraph 1 : Discuss how discipline is critical to achieving personal goals. Highlight how self-regulation and commitment lead to the development of habits necessary for success in academics, careers, and personal projects. Use examples of successful individuals whose achievements can be attributed to a disciplined approach to their work and life.

Societal Order :

• Paragraph 2 : Explore the importance of discipline in maintaining societal order. Explain how rules and regulations help create a predictable and safe environment. Discuss the consequences of indiscipline in society, such as chaos, conflict, and dysfunction, contrasting these with societies where discipline is a core value.

Mental Health and Well-being :

• Paragraph 3 : Examine the relationship between discipline and mental health. Address how structured routines and self-control can lead to reduced stress, increased productivity, and overall mental well-being. Mention studies or expert opinions that support the notion that discipline helps in managing life’s challenges more effectively.

Summarize the key points discussed, reinforcing the thesis about the pervasive value of discipline. Emphasize the universal benefits of discipline, encouraging readers to cultivate it in their personal and professional lives. Conclude with a reflective thought or a question that prompts further consideration of the role of discipline in achieving a balanced and fulfilling life.

Value Of Discipline Essay Example #1

Discipline is a virtue that encompasses self-control, commitment, and adherence to a set of principles or rules. It is a cornerstone of personal growth, success, and overall well-being. The value of discipline extends beyond mere obedience; it empowers individuals to overcome challenges, achieve goals, and lead a purposeful life.

One of the key benefits of discipline is its role in personal development. By cultivating discipline, individuals gain the ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and stay focused amidst distractions. Discipline provides the structure needed to set and achieve goals, fostering a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence. It instills habits of consistency and perseverance, enabling individuals to overcome obstacles and setbacks along their journey.

Discipline is also essential in academic and professional settings. Students who practice discipline exhibit improved study habits, time management skills, and a greater ability to meet deadlines. They are more likely to excel academically and develop a strong work ethic that carries into their professional lives. In the workplace, discipline ensures reliability, productivity, and a commitment to quality results.

Furthermore, discipline plays a vital role in maintaining healthy relationships. It fosters respect, accountability, and effective communication. Individuals who practice discipline are more likely to honor commitments, manage conflicts constructively, and prioritize the needs of others. Discipline helps to build trust and strengthen connections, leading to more fulfilling and harmonious relationships.

While discipline brings numerous benefits, it is not without its challenges. Maintaining discipline requires self-awareness, self-control, and a willingness to make sacrifices. It necessitates resisting short-term gratification in favor of long-term goals. However, with practice and determination, discipline becomes a habit that yields immense rewards.

To cultivate discipline, individuals can employ various strategies. Creating a routine, setting achievable goals, and breaking tasks into manageable steps can help promote consistency and progress. Seeking support from mentors, coaches, or accountability partners can provide guidance and encouragement. Developing self-motivation techniques, such as visualization, positive affirmations, and rewards, can also enhance discipline.

In conclusion, the value of discipline is undeniable. It is a virtue that empowers individuals to overcome challenges, achieve goals, and lead a purposeful life. Through discipline, personal growth is fostered, academic and professional success is attained, and relationships flourish. While discipline may require effort and sacrifice, its benefits far outweigh the challenges. By embracing discipline, individuals can unlock their true potential and live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

Value Of Discipline Essay Example #2

Discipline is a fundamental value that plays a crucial role in shaping individuals and societies. It is the key to achieving success, maintaining order, and reaching personal and professional goals. The value of discipline extends to every aspect of life, from education and career to relationships and personal growth. In essence, discipline provides the structure and self-control necessary to navigate life’s challenges and make the most of opportunities.

One of the primary benefits of discipline is its impact on academic and professional success. In the realm of education, disciplined students exhibit traits such as attentiveness, time management, and a strong work ethic. They prioritize their studies, complete assignments promptly, and are proactive in seeking knowledge. Such discipline leads to higher grades, improved learning outcomes, and a solid foundation for future endeavors.

In the professional world, discipline is highly valued by employers and colleagues alike. Disciplined individuals demonstrate punctuality, reliability, and a commitment to quality work. They are focused, organized, and able to meet deadlines consistently. This level of discipline not only enhances productivity but also fosters a positive reputation, opening doors to new opportunities and career advancement.

Beyond academics and career, discipline plays a significant role in personal growth and self-improvement. It requires individuals to set goals, develop action plans, and adhere to them despite distractions or setbacks. Through discipline, individuals cultivate habits such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and continuous learning. These habits contribute to physical well-being, mental clarity, and personal development, enabling individuals to lead fulfilling lives.

Discipline is also vital in maintaining healthy relationships. It involves respecting boundaries, practicing effective communication, and demonstrating commitment. Disciplined individuals are reliable, accountable, and considerate of others’ needs. They prioritize the well-being of their relationships, fostering trust, and creating a harmonious environment for growth and connection.

While discipline may sometimes be perceived as restrictive or challenging, its benefits far outweigh any perceived limitations. Discipline provides a sense of direction, focus, and purpose. It empowers individuals to overcome obstacles, resist temptations, and make choices aligned with their long-term aspirations. It instills a sense of self-control and resilience, enabling individuals to navigate life’s ups and downs with grace and determination.

In conclusion, the value of discipline cannot be overstated. It is a crucial element in achieving academic and professional success, personal growth, and nurturing healthy relationships. By embracing discipline, individuals gain the tools to overcome challenges, stay focused on their goals, and lead a purposeful life. Discipline is not a constraint but rather a pathway to self-discovery, fulfillment, and the realization of one’s true potential.

Value Of Discipline Essay Example #3

Discipline is a virtue that holds the power to transform individuals and shape their lives in profound ways. It is the unwavering commitment to self-control, perseverance, and adherence to principles. The value of discipline goes beyond short-term achievements; it fosters long-term growth, personal fulfillment, and success.

One of the significant impacts of discipline is its ability to cultivate self-control. In a world filled with distractions and instant gratification, discipline empowers individuals to resist temptations and make choices aligned with their long-term goals. It allows individuals to overcome impulsive behaviors and develop a sense of restraint that leads to healthier and more fulfilling lifestyles. Whether it’s resisting unhealthy habits, managing impulses, or staying focused on important tasks, discipline provides the inner strength needed to make positive choices.

Discipline also plays a crucial role in personal growth and skill development. By embracing discipline, individuals commit to continuous learning, practice, and improvement. Whether it’s mastering a musical instrument, honing athletic abilities, or developing professional skills, discipline ensures consistent effort and dedication. It enables individuals to push beyond their comfort zones, overcome challenges, and reach new levels of expertise. Through discipline, individuals can unlock their full potential and achieve remarkable personal growth.

Moreover, discipline is instrumental in achieving long-term goals and aspirations. It instills the habits of planning, organization, and perseverance necessary for success. Disciplined individuals set clear objectives, break them down into actionable steps, and consistently work towards their realization. They understand the importance of consistency, hard work, and resilience in the face of obstacles. By maintaining discipline, individuals stay committed to their goals and increase their chances of accomplishing them.

Discipline also contributes to the development of strong character and integrity. It requires individuals to uphold moral values, act responsibly, and make ethical choices. By practicing discipline, individuals build trust and credibility in their personal and professional relationships. They become reliable, accountable, and respected members of their communities.

While discipline may require effort and sacrifice, its rewards are immeasurable. It brings order, focus, and direction to individuals’ lives. It instills a sense of purpose and empowers individuals to take control of their destinies. Discipline provides the necessary foundation for personal and professional success and paves the way for a life of fulfillment and achievement.

In conclusion, the value of discipline cannot be overstated. It has the potential to transform individuals, enabling them to develop self-control, achieve personal growth, and realize their dreams. Through discipline, individuals cultivate the virtues of perseverance, organization, and integrity. By embracing discipline, individuals unlock their true potential, leading lives of purpose, success, and personal fulfillment.

Final Writing Tips

• Be Precise : Given the short essay format, focus on delivering clear and concise points. Avoid unnecessary details that do not contribute directly to your main arguments.
• Use Examples : Enhance your arguments with relevant examples or anecdotes. Real-life applications make the abstract concept of discipline more tangible and relatable.
• Stay Balanced : While promoting the benefits of discipline, acknowledge that flexibility and creativity also play crucial roles in a balanced life.
• Proofread : Ensure your essay is free from grammatical errors and that the structure allows for smooth transitions between paragraphs.
• Engage Your Audience : Write in a way that resonates with your readers, using language that is accessible and persuasive.

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Essay on School Discipline

Discipline is used in schools to keep students, teachers and other staff safe and to help meet the behavioral, social and emotional needs of the children as they grow and develop. Schools approach discipline in various ways and the severity of the discipline usually coincides with how severe the offense was.

Goal of Discipline

The main goal of discipline in schools is to teach children appropriate ways of behaving by giving consequences for making poor choices. For example, a student who doesn’t pay attention in class may have to spend recess time making up material that was missed. Discipline helps a student refrain from the behavior in the future.

The other goal of school discipline is to create a learning environment that benefits all students. By putting an end to behaviors that are not conducive to learning, teachers and administrators are able to create classrooms that are ideal for the educational needs of the children in the school. Types of School Discipline

Punitive techniques of discipline are the most common and involve giving an unpleasant consequence in response to a negative behavior. An example of this is when a child must move his desk to the front of the room after getting caught throwing pencils at other students. The aim is that next time the student considers throwing a pencil, he will remember the embarrassment of having to move to the front of the room while the entire class knows he is in trouble.

Zero tolerance is something that is used for more severe behaviors. Typically students are given warning or two before being given a consequence. However, the technique of zero tolerance means that no warnings are given and consequences are immediate. This type of discipline is used in cases of violence toward other students, drugs and other dangerous behaviors.

Some schools also use positive reinforcement, which is a technique that involves offering positive consequences for behavior that teachers and other staff want to see. For example, perhaps a student is given a sticker for turning in homework on time or is allowed to check out an extra library book for showing proper care of books. The goal here is to make proper behavior attractive enough that students want to make the right choices.

Effects of the Right Discipline Choice

The type of discipline a school chooses to use has an impact on the overall atmosphere and safety of the learning environment. In general, experts suggest a mixture of the types to create well rounded students who avoid undesired behaviors and instead gravitate toward the undesired ones. Discipline also creates structure and expectations for students, something that plenty of research says is ideal for teaching kids, both academically and socially, effectively preparing them for life beyond school.

Research Findings

According to the American Institutes for Research, students who are effectively disciplined, both positively and negatively, have a higher academic performance and are less likely to become part of the juvenile justice system as they get older. In addition, experts have found that discipline that occurs at school, rather than suspending students, further improves their performance in the classroom and helps keep them out of the legal system.

What Parents Can Do

School discipline is only truly effective if parents are willing to back up the decisions made by the school and help their child learn the proper way to behave at school. Parents should make a point of understanding the discipline used at their child’s school so they know what to expect and teach their child what to expect. Parents should understand that the rules at school may be different than the ones at home, but that kids are expected to follow the rules when they are in the classroom. Parents who partner with the school are the most likely to create students who behave appropriately at school and who don’t need much discipline to be successful.

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Discipline in Schools

Consistency, fairness, and follow-through reduce classroom disruptions

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Schools should provide students with the educational foundation to build successful, independent lives. Classroom disruptions interfere with student achievement. Teachers and administrators must maintain the discipline to create an effective learning environment . A combination of methods used in a consistent and fair manner typically offers the best approach to classroom discipline.

Increase Parental Involvement

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Parents make a difference in student achievement and behavior. Schools should institute policies requiring teachers to contact parents periodically throughout the year. Half-term or end-of-term reports are often not enough. Calling takes time, but parents can often provide solutions to difficult classroom problems. While not all parental involvement will be positive or have a measurable effect on student behavior, many successful schools use this approach.  

Create and Enforce a Schoolwide Discipline Plan

Discipline plans provide students with acknowledged consequences for misbehavior. Effective classroom management should include the dissemination and use of a discipline plan. Teacher training on implementation along with periodic reviews can encourage the consistent and fair application of behavior standards.  

Establish Leadership

The actions of the  principal and assistant principals form the basis of the overall mood for the school. If they consistently  support teachers , fairly implement the discipline plan, and follow through on disciplinary actions, then teachers will follow their lead. If they slack off on discipline, it becomes apparent over time and misbehavior typically increases.  

Practice Effective Follow-Through

Consistently following through on the action plan is the only way to truly foster  discipline in schools . If a teacher ignores misbehavior in the classroom, it will increase. If administrators fail to support the teachers, they could easily lose control of the situation.

Provide Alternative Education Opportunities

Some students need controlled environments where they can learn without distracting the wider school community. If one student continually disrupts a class and shows an unwillingness to improve his behavior, he might need to be removed from the situation for the sake of the rest of the students in the class. Alternative schools provide options for disruptive or challenging students. Moving students to new classes that can be controlled at the school level can also help in some situations.

Build a Reputation for Fairness

Students must believe that teachers and administrators are fair in their disciplinary actions. While some extenuating circumstances require administrators to make adjustments for individual students, in general, students who misbehave should be treated similarly.

Implement Additional Effective Schoolwide Policies

Discipline in schools can evoke the image of administrators stopping fights before they begin or dealing with hostile students in a classroom setting . However, effective discipline begins with the implementation of schoolwide housekeeping policies that all teachers must follow.   For example, if a school implements a tardy policy that all teachers and administrators follow, tardies will likely decrease. If teachers are expected to handle these situations on a case-by-case basis, some will do a better job than others and tardies will have a tendency to increase.

Maintain High Expectations

From administrators to guidance counselors and teachers, schools must institute high expectations for both academic achievement and behavior. These expectations should include messages of encouragement and means of support to help all children succeed

Additional References

• Osher, D. et. al. Addressing the Root Causes of Disparities in School Discipline: An Educator’s Action Planning Guide. Washington, D.C: National Center on Safe Supportive Learning Environments, 2015. 
• Slee, Roger. Changing Theories and Practices of Discipline. The Farmer Press, 1979.
• South Carolina State Department of Education. Best Practices for Supporting Educators with Discipline . 2019.

Joseph, Philip. “ The Role of Parents in the Dynamics of School Discipline .” SSRN, 23 Jan. 2013.

Griffith, David and Adam Tyner. Discipline Reform through the Eyes of Teachers . Washington, D.C: Thomas B. Fordham Insitute, 30 July 2019.

Nelson, Faye. A Qualitative Study of Effective School Discipline Practices: Perceptions of Administrators, Tenured Teachers, and Parents in Twenty Schools . Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 718, 2002.

Sharkey, Colin. “ Developing a Total School Discipline Plan .” NWPE Vision.

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How to write the perfect discipline essay?

Essay writing is a fundamental task that can improve your language skills. discipline is a key contributor to ensuring you achieve all your set objectives. combine both and you have an essay topic that is guaranteed to inspire and enlighten your readers. here is how to write the perfect discipline essay, table of contents, what concepts should i cover in my discipline essay , what pointers should i keep in mind when drafting the introduction of my discipline essay, how do i write the body of my discipline essay , how do i effectively conclude my discipline essay , interesting quotes to conclude your discipline essay, key takeaways .

Discipline is ‌one of the most crucial personality traits in your life. This term refers to a set of rules that are followed while undergoing any activity or task. 

Practicing discipline is an excellent way to remain motivated and encouraged when setting out to accomplish a goal. A discipline essay is, therefore, a wonderful way to gather and share information that will eventually also improve your writing skills.  Here are some pointers to keep in mind when writing the perfect discipline essay!

Before you write your discipline essay, consider creating a structure for your piece. The structure should include an introduction, body, and conclusion that effectively covers all important points regarding the topic. 

The points you will use to describe the topic should encompass all relevant information that a reader needs to know. This includes a brief description of discipline, the role that discipline plays in accomplishing goals, the importance of discipline in everyday life, and the advantages of a disciplined lifestyle.

The introductory paragraph of an essay is an essential part of the piece. Your discipline essay’s introduction should be able to accomplish the following objectives – 

• Catch your readers’ attention 
• Provide a simple background on the topic 
• Present a one-line summary of what the reader can expect to learn from the essay 

The first sentence of your introduction is fundamental to setting the tone for the whole discipline essay. 

Here is an easy example to start your piece with – 

The fields of psychology and philosophy have discussed the art and skill of discipline for thousands of years. Ancient Greek philosophers describe discipline as a ‘sophrosyne’, an ideal of the soundness of mind and an excellent character that births self-control, balance, and moderation. 

Your introduction should also be able to provide a historical, geographical, and social context (when required). If presenting an argument, an outline of your debate is crucial to establishing the baseline for your reader.

The body of your discipline essay should contain paragraphs that organize your thoughts and themes. Body paragraphs play an essential role in proving the thesis of your essay (which is presented in the introduction). 

Each paragraph of the essay should logically relate to the one immediately before and after it. A single paragraph should also focus on one topic or idea. 

At this point, it is important to note that readers absorb information in short increments, taking mental breaks at the end of a paragraph. Lengthy paragraphs in your discipline essay are better off avoided. 

The body of your discipline essay also provides an opportunity to expand on the claims established in the introductory paragraph. Use short and concise sentences supported with quotations, data, and facts from reputable sources to create an impression on the reader.  If presenting evidence, never leave the paragraph hanging. As an essay writer, your key responsibility includes linking work and connecting your evidence on discipline to the main ideas of the paragraph. You can accomplish this by interpreting, expanding, and commentating on the evidence described in the body.

The conclusion of your discipline essay is the last paragraph you need to write. A good conclusion will – 

• Tie together the main points of the essay 
• Present why your argument is relevant 
• Leave a strong and lasting impression on the reader

The conclusion of your essay is the best place to review your main points and remind the reader of your arguments. Try not to simply summarize each paragraph and repeat each point explained in the body of your discipline essay. 

The conclusion needs to bring together all of your points on the topic of discipline in a manner that clearly illustrates the connection between the different concepts. 

Wrap your conclusion with a broader view of the topic and implications of your argument. The conclusion should be able to – 

• Provide the reader with a new understanding of ‌’discipline’ 
• Raise new questions on how the topic can be implemented in everyday life 
• Create opportunities for the concept of discipline to be applied to different contexts 
• Allow the reader to connect the concept to a broader theme or debate
• Create room for practical predictions and suggestions

You can even consider ending your discipline essay with a strong & decisive sentence, or even a quote!

• “Sucess isn’t measured by money or power or social rank. Success is measured by your discipline and inner peace.” – Mike Ditka. 
• “Self-respect is the fruit of discipline; the sense of dignity grows with the ability to say no to oneself.” – Abraham Joshua Heschel 
• “Confidence comes from discipline and training.” – Robert Kiyosaki
• “Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable; procures success to the weak, and esteem to all.” – George Washington 
• “With faith, discipline, and selfless devotion to duty, there is nothing worthwhile that you cannot achieve.” – Muhammad Ali Jinnah
• Essay writing is an essential component of language learning and development. Writing on topics of interest can be an excellent way to facilitate the understanding of new concepts and themes. 
• Learning how to structure and write a discipline essay with the above points can help you create prose that is compelling, informative, and engaging. 
• Dividing your essay into a clean structure that includes an introduction, body, and conclusion can help you put your thoughts across as neatly and concisely as possible. 
• The conclusion of your essay can leave a lasting impression on the reader. You can consider ending your essay with the quotes listed above for maximum effect. 

Did you enjoy this blog? If yes, please share your thoughts in the comments below. Click here to reach out to us for more information on how to write the perfect discipline essay. We would be happy to assist you with your queries!

Liked this blog? Read next: Global warming essay | Create the best essay with these 10 pointers!

Q1. What are the benefits of writing essays? 

Answer – With essays, you can gain significant research skills and increase your knowledge of different concepts and develop your writing abilities. 

Q2. Does discipline contribute to effective decision-making? 

Answer – Absolutely! Individuals who are disciplined are also mentally and physically focused. They are, therefore, able to align their body & mind with their ideas & goals to make excellent decisions. 

Q3. What sort of writing tone should I employ for an essay on discipline? 

Answer – This depends on what you are attempting to accomplish with your essay. For example, a conversational tone for a discipline essay can be a great way to initiate discussion on the concept amongst your readers.

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Tips for Achieving and Maintaining Discipline

Teachers often make the mistake of using “stop” messages rather than a “start” message. For example, “Stop talking. We need to get started.” A better message is “Get out your math books, and turn to page 44.” The effect is tremendous. It establishes a productive, businesslike tone for the lesson. The focus is not on the (negative) behavior, but the importance of the lesson.

Discipline is not about getting kids to do what you want them to do. That's what dictators do, and you're not a dictator—you're an educator. Discipline is providing an environment in which positive teaching and positive learning can occur simultaneously. Discipline is not control from the outside; it's order from within.

In conversations with teachers, I've discovered some practical and universal ideas that will help you achieve discipline in your classroom. Tap into the experience of these pros, and turn your classroom into a place where students learn and enjoy the process.

Greet students at the door. Interact with your students on a personal level every day. Greet them by name, interject a positive comment or observation, shake their hand, and welcome them into the classroom. This sets a positive tone for a lesson or for the day.

Get students focused before you begin any lesson. Be sure you have their attention before you begin. Don't try to talk over students; you'll be initiating a competition to see who can speak louder and also let them know it's okay to talk while you are talking.

Use positive presence. Don't park yourself in the front of the classroom. Move around the room continuously, and get in and around your students. Make frequent eye contact, and smile with students. Monitor students with your physical presence.

Model the behavioryou want students to produce. If you exhibit respectfulness , trust, enthusiasm, interest, and courtesy in your everyday dealings with students, they will return the favor in kind. Remember the saying, “Values are caught, not taught.”

Use low-profile intervention. When you see a student who is misbehaving, be sure your intervention is quiet, calm, and inconspicuous. Use the student's name in part of your presentation, for example, “As an example, let's measure Michael's height in centimeters.” Michael, who has been whispering to his neighbor, hears his name and is drawn back into the lesson with no disruption of the class.

Send positive “I” messages. Thomas Gordon, creator of Teacher Effectiveness Training, under-scores the importance of “I” messages as a powerful way of humanizing the classroom and ensuring positive discipline. An I-message is composed of three parts:

Include a description of the student's behavior. (“When you talk while I talk …”)

Relate the effect this behavior has on you, the teacher. (“I have to stop my teaching …”)

Let the student know the feeling it generates in you. (“which frustrates me”)

Verbal reprimands should be private, brief, and as immediate as possible. The more private a reprimand, the less likely you will be challenged. The more immediate the reprimand, the less likely the student will feel you condone her or his behavior. And keep reprimands brief. The more you talk, the more you distract from the lesson and the more you “reward” a student for inappropriate behavior.

Provide lots of positive feedback. Many veteran teachers will tell you, “10 percent of the students will give you 90 percent of your headaches!” But what about the 90 percent of those other students in your classroom? Don't forget them; recognize their contributions and behavior:

Acknowledge positive student behavior when it is not expected.

Acknowledge compliance with requests.

Acknowledge hard work, kindness, and dependability.

Be consistent! Although this is easier said than done, the key to an effective discipline policy in any classroom is consistency. Make these principles part of your classroom action plan:

If you have a rule , enforce that rule.

Don't hand out lots of warnings without following through on consequences. Lots of warnings tell students that you won't enforce a rule.

Be fair and impartial. The rules are there for everyone, and that includes girls as well as boys, tall people and short people, students with freckles and students without freckles, and special needs kids as well as gifted kids .

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Teen Discipline: Strategies and Challenges

Behavioral problems and effective solutions for Your 13- to 18-Year-Olds

Typical Teen Behaviors

Common teen challenges, discipline strategies that work, preventing future problems, communication tips.

When your child becomes a teenager, your parenting role begins to shift. You may find yourself becoming more of a guide rather than a rule-maker or teacher. That’s not to say your child won’t need you to intervene when there are safety issues or that your teen won’t need consequences. But, by now, it’s a good idea to let your child make more of their own decisions—even if you think it’s not the best choice. Just be sure to be there with structure, support, and empathy, as needed.

"Use of consistent expectations, praise, and consequences are important for teens, just as they are important for all children across development," says Katharine Reynolds , PhD, a licensed psychologist at Children’s Hospital Colorado and assistant psychiatry professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Here, we'll discuss common teen behaviors and discipline strategies you can employ.

Your teen will want more independence and privacy and have an increasing focus on their social lives. They may want to keep their social media conversations private, and they may spend a lot more time in their room with the door closed. "As many teens are at the end stages of puberty, their interest in romantic relationships will also increase," says Dr. Reynolds.

"Teens are quite focused on and influenced by their social relationships with peers," says Caroline Fulton , PsyD, a child and adolescent psychologist at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield, Illinois. A growing interest in autonomy goes hand-in-hand with their increasing attention to their friends and the world beyond their families.

Teens like to test the limits of their independence, explains Dr. Fulton. So, don’t be surprised when your teen argues with you when you say no, or if they go behind your back to do as they please. Periodically breaking curfew, sneaking out , and making other mistakes are also common teen behavior. There’s also often a tug-of-war between parents and teens. Your child may demand your assistance one minute and claim they don't need you the next.

Typical teen behavior varies quite a bit, but you may see the following:

• They are more susceptible to the impacts of stress and lack of sleep than adults.
• Their brains are still developing, so it is expected for them to be more emotionally volatile, impulsive, and risk-taking.
• They may act more mature in some areas of their lives, but still child-like in others.
• Your teen may show less of an interest in family time.
• Your teen will want to spend more time on their appearance and exploring dating.

The many, sometimes tumultuous, changes of adolescence are a normal part of growing up. It can be tricky to strike a balance that gives your child enough freedom while still offering them plenty of guidance. However, while the goal is to develop their autonomy, it’s important to keep an eye out for mental health issues, such as stress or negative body image, unhealthy relationships like bullying or partner abuse, sleep issues, and drug use .

Typically, teens are self-conscious, very sensitive to criticism, and prone to question who they are and who they want to become, says Dr. Fulton. "Parents should aim to give their teens some space to express themselves, while also ensuring they are meeting basic responsibilities and behaving safely," suggests Dr. Fulton.

Some common challenges for teens include the following:

• Many teens want more freedom than they can handle, which may mean breaking rules and/or wanting a later curfew , unlimited access to their electronic devices, and/or a new phone.
• They may complain that you are too controlling or don't get them, and/or lie to get out of trouble.
• They may experiment with different personas, interests, and ways of dressing to express themself in new ways, some of which parents may not relate to or like.
• Your teen may have a short temper, roll their eyes at you, and/or talk back .
• Your teen may have relationship troubles, friend issues, and school-related problems.

Just because your teen has outgrown time-out doesn't mean you can't instill effective consequences. In fact, consequences, rather than punishments, are an effective way to influence your child's behavior—and teach skills that may be lagging, says Dr. Reynolds.

When it comes to disciplining teenagers, it's important to be firm and consistent, but also fair and reasonable. Your teen is old enough to understand when the consequence fits the crime, and they'll be more cooperative they know you are not just trying to exert your power over them. Punishments for teenagers should be related to the infraction and aim to teach them, rather than humiliate them or break them down. It's also important to be flexible and willing to rethink your limits as your teen matures. Your relationship should be changing into a more collaborative one, where you still hold the final word.

Note, too, that many teens might actually be happy if they got sent to their rooms. That's one solution that allows kids to calm down while they get some space and perspective. It's important to find common sense, related consequences that will teach life lessons. Here are some of the most effective discipline strategies for teens.

Open Dialogue

The bedrock of effective discipline is having open communication, trust, and respect between the parent and child. If you have frequent, nonjudgmental conversations with your child where you listen to what they have to say, they will feel heard and may be more likely to talk to you when challenges, such as handling peer pressure or drug and alcohol use.

"Proactive conversations about these topics are helpful for preparing your teen for when they encounter these things in their increasingly independent lives," explains Dr. Reynolds. If you already have a positive communication channel open with your teen, they will be more likely to respond cooperatively to your disciplinary measures.

Praise and Rewards

Even though teens are increasing in their independence, acknowledgment for their accomplishments and efforts are important to continue to provide. "Highlighting your teen’s achievements and successes (either with verbal praise or another reward or acknowledgment) is an important strategy for developing and maintaining positive behaviors," says Dr. Reynolds. This positive feedback will go a long way toward encouraging positive behavior, he explains.

Consistent House Rules

Just like for little kids, it is helpful for families to develop and maintain a set of “house rules” that are linked with an automatic consequence, such as loss of a privilege, when they are broken, suggests Dr. Reynolds. The key is to establish the rules and consequences before any infractions occur so that everyone knows what to expect.

"Have clear rules but make them simple and reasonable," says Dr. Fulton. Also, be sure to explain to your teen why they're important.

Consider generating your family's house rules together with your teen. "This doesn’t mean your teen alone makes the rules, but you may be surprised to see that they can be quite reasonable about what they are seeking," says Dr. Fulton. "They are also more likely to internalize and follow the expectations if they have been included in making them."

Remove Privileges

If your teen violates the rules, they may be showing you they can’t handle the freedom you’re giving them, explains Dr. Reynolds. Tighten the rules by giving them an earlier curfew or by reducing the amount of time they spend using their electronics.

From smartphones to laptops ,  screen time is important to most teenagers.  Restricting your teen’s phone privileges  can be an effective consequence. Just make sure it’s time-limited. Usually, 24 hours is long enough to send a clear message to your teen.

If your teen’s misbehavior involves friends, first discuss their actions and then make adjustments to their social privileges, suggests Dr. Reynolds. A break from their buddies, while discussing their behavior, can help build a foundation for better choices in the future. When your teen is able to show you that they can be responsible, they can have the opportunity to earn their privileges back .

Know that your child may not always be happy with your decisions or want to face the consequences of breaking rules. "Expecting to be liked by your child all of the time may make it hard to set and enforce limits," says Dr. Fulton.

Natural Consequences

Natural consequences can be the best teachers in certain situations. But it’s important to make sure the natural consequences will really teach your teen a life lesson. For example, if they refuse to wear a coat, they may end up cold. Or if they don't study for a test, they may not do well. Or if they don't take a lunch to school, they'll likely end up hungry. In these types of circumstances, it can be instructive to back off and let your teen face the consequences of their choices.

"It’s hard to see your child be upset when you enforce a consequence or tell them they can’t do something, but having clear and predictable limits actually creates an environment of safety and predictability," explains Dr. Fulton.

If your teen breaks something, make them pay to fix it. Or, if they are irresponsible with the car, take away their driving privileges. Whenever possible, create consequences that are directly tied to the poor decision or mistake your teen made.

Assign Extra Responsibilities

If your teenager’s behavior hurts someone else,  create a plan to make amends . This is also called restitution or restorative justice. Apologizing is the first step, followed by doing something to make up for the wrong they did. For instance, fixing something they broke or doing an extra chore for someone may help repair the relationship and remind them to accept responsibility for their behavior.

Avoid Power Struggles

When your teen says, “That’s not fair!” or “I’ll do it later,” resist the temptation to argue. Set a firm limit and follow through with a consequence, says Dr. Fulton. Make it clear that they don't have to like your decision and it's fine to be upset. Their emotions are always welcome, but that doesn't change that they need to follow what you say. So, aim to stay calm and empathetic while also staying true to your choice. Moreover, avoid getting sucked into a heated  power struggle .

"Your child will sometimes be frustrated or upset with you, and that does not mean you are doing something wrong," says Dr. Reynolds.

Whether your teen wants expensive basketball sneakers or asks to have a later bedtime, make it clear that privileges must be earned. If your teen’s behavior doesn’t warrant privileges, don’t allow them to have them. Do your best to be reasonable and be willing to listen to your child's perspective—and help them find a pathway toward earning whatever freedom or goal they want to achieve.

If your 16-year-old sits in their room and plays video games all day, they may not be misbehaving. But, they might still need some discipline to help them socialize and behave more responsibly. "Ensure that your teen gets time away from screens and support them in engaging with healthy sources of entertainment," says. Dr. Fulton. Provide discipline that helps your child do better, not just punishment for wrongdoing.

Brainstorm Solutions

If your teen has broken a rule or been disrespectful , consider brainstorming possible solutions with them. Ask them what happened, what they think about their behavior, and how they might make up for it. Listen while they suggest possible reasonable consequences for their actions. You can add some of your own. Then, you can discuss the pros and cons of each option before deciding which one you think makes the most sense.

Be sure to have this conversation at a time when you're both calm and have had a chance to think things through. You don't need to go with your teen's suggestion, particularly if it lets them off the hook for their infraction. However, you might find that talking through possible disciplinary actions gets them more engaged in making amends and doing better in the future. This approach also turns a misstep into a learning opportunity you can both feel good about.

Aim to find the right balance between letting your teen try out new freedoms and offering guidance and structure, suggests Dr. Reynolds. Behave like an overprotective  helicopter parent  and your teenager won’t learn how to make healthy decisions or experience the repercussions of their actions. If you’re too permissive, however, they also won’t gain the skills they need to become a responsible adult . Instead, try these strategies to  prevent behavior problems  in teenagers.

Have Clear Expectations

Make your expectations clear. Before you drop your teen off at the movies or you let them walk to the skate park alone, make sure that they know the plan. Tell them what you want them to do if they encounter a problem and what time you expect them to be home. If there are other parameters, such as staying at a certain friend's house or calling to check in, be sure they know what those are, too.

"Avoid giving your teen full decision-making without oversight. While teens are increasingly capable, they still need to be given boundaries and limits," says Dr. Fulton.

Your teen will often live up to your expectations, as long as those expectations are reasonable and developmentally appropriate. So, for example, you might it clear that you expect them to do well in school, use respectful language, keep their room clean, or get their chores done every day. If you find that they are struggling to follow your expectations, investigate why. Sometimes, they might not be ready for the task or they may need to learn how to do it effectively.

When you give your teen a new privilege, like a smartphone or a later curfew,  create a behavior contract . Review the expectations and outline the consequences for breaking the rules. Have them sign the contract before they get the privilege—and follow through on the consequences, if needed.

Listen to Your Child

While it's important to have effective communication with children of all ages, once they are teenagers, it becomes key to do less of the talking. With teens, you want to take the time to listen, ask questions, and support your child's journey toward figuring out their own solutions to their problems. Talking out their issues with you can help them understand what they are feeling and help them cope with whatever is going on.

Do your best to communicate without being overly reactive or judgmental, says Dr. Fulton. "Be firm and clear, without being cruel or losing control of your own emotions and behavior."

Remember, the less you say, the more you hear about what's going on in your teen's life. Do your best not to jump in with advice or reprimands. Instead, when feasible, aim to be as neutral as possible and ask them what they think the best way to handle something is. Often, if you ask the right questions and listen with true curiosity and empathy, your child gets the opportunity to problem solve, vent, and share in a safe, productive way.

Additionally, be sure to be reasonable in your rules and expectations. "Use caution not to be overly restrictive. If your child is not allowed any latitude, they may resort to breaking rules in secret," advises Dr. Fulton.

Spend Time Together

Give your teen positive attention  to build a solid foundation for your relationship. Be willing to step into your teen’s world by learning how to play a video game or by watching a teen movie. Or shoot hoops with them, go on a hike, do an art project, or listen to music they like. Essentially, if it's an activity they enjoy, they will be even more enthusiastic—and it shows them you are interested in them and their preferences.

Be a good role model, too. Your teen learns more by watching what you do, rather than hearing what you say. So, make sure you’re being a good role model, from getting regular physical activity and limiting your own screen time to apologizing when you've done something wrong.

You might find your teen can’t stop talking to their friends. But the minute you ask how their day was, they might have nothing to say. Communicating with your teen may feel like an uphill battle sometimes. But, it’s important to keep trying.

Communicate Regularly

Healthy communication is at the heart of any good relationship. It’s advisable to talk about everything from peer pressure to their goals for the future. When your teen knows they can talk to you, they'll be more likely to seek your guidance.

Insisting your teen sit down and talk to you face-to-face about serious subjects may cause your teen to shut down. Instead, opt for more frequent, casual chats. You might find your teen is more willing to talk when you’re doing an activity together, such as playing catch, walking the dog, or even riding in the car. You can also ask them when a good time is for them to have a conversation.

"Separate your child’s actions from who they are as an individual. Ensure your child knows they are loved and supported, even when they inevitably make mistakes," advises Dr. Fulton.

Most of all, it's important for your child to know they always have you to talk to, so aim to be non-judgmental and to listen to what they have to say. Also, it's key for them to know that you care about what's going on in their life, says Dr. Reynolds. Also, it keeps them accountable for their behavior if they know you will always be there asking questions and checking on them.

Don't Push It

Sometimes, the more you push for information, the more they will withdraw or get annoyed. It’s healthy for your teen to gain some independence, so don’t insist that they tell you everything that's happening in their life. Help them identify several other healthy adults they could always turn to for advice. An aunt, grandmother, coach, teacher, or neighbor might be someone your child feels comfortable talking to about certain subjects.

Step Into Their World

Your teen may communicate more freely over social media or through text messages. So, be willing to step into your teen’s world and talk to them in whatever form they seem most comfortable opening up.

Problem-solve together. Rather than tell your teen how to do things better, invite them to problem-solve with you. Ask questions like, “What could you do that would help you remember to do your chores?” Brainstorm ideas together and then encourage your teen to pick a potential solution.

A Word From Verywell

Discipline can get tricky as your teen gets closer to adulthood. However, remember the same core discipline principles of consistency, consequences, acceptance, open communication, and love still work to manage and guide your teen's behavior. You are still their parent and no matter how mature they are getting, they still need you as a role model, support system, sounding board, and cheerleader.

American Academy of Pediatrics. Information for teens: what you need to know about privacy .

American Academy of Pediatrics. Staying out late and curfews .

American Academy of Pediatrics. Independence, one step at a time .

National Institute of Mental Health. The teen brain: 7 things to know .

American Academy of Pediatrics. What's going on in the teenage brain?

Milkie MA, Nomaguchi KM, Denny KE. Does the amount of time mothers spend with children or adolescents matter?   Fam Relat . 2015;77(2):355-372. doi:10.1111/jomf.12170

American Academy of Pediatrics. When to let your teenager start dating .

American Academy of Pediatrics. Signs of teen dating violence .

American Academy of Pediatrics. Talking with your teen: tips for parents .

American Academy of Pediatrics. Disciplining older children .

American Academy of Pediatrics. Effective discipline to raise healthy children .

American Academy of Pediatrics. How to communicate with and listen to your teen .

American Academy of Pediatrics. Next stop adulthood: Tips for parents .

American Academy of Pediatrics. How to shape and manage your young child's behavior .

Stancheva-Popkostadinova V, Chincheva S, Stoyanova S, Sotirova V.  Adolescents’ views of discipline methods .  Neuropsychiatr Enfance Adolesc . 2012;60(5). doi:10.1016/j.neurenf.2012.04.147

Zahrt DM, Melzer-Lange MD. Aggressive behavior in children and adolescents . Pediatr Rev . 2011;32(8):325-32. doi:10.1542/pir.32-8-325

By Sarah Vanbuskirk Sarah Vanbuskirk is a writer and editor with 20 years of experience covering parenting, health, wellness, lifestyle, and family-related topics. Her work has been published in numerous magazines, newspapers, and websites, including Activity Connection, Glamour, PDX Parent, Self, TripSavvy, Marie Claire, and TimeOut NY.

Essay on Discipline

Students are often asked to write an essay on Discipline in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Discipline

Understanding discipline.

Discipline means following a set of rules. It helps us to stay focused and behave in a controlled manner. Discipline is important in every aspect of life.

The Importance of Discipline

Discipline plays a crucial role in our lives. It helps us to achieve our goals by keeping us focused. Discipline also teaches us to respect others and their rights.

Discipline in School

In schools, discipline helps to maintain a peaceful environment. It encourages students to listen, learn, and respect their teachers and peers.

In conclusion, discipline is a key to success. It shapes our character and helps us to be responsible individuals.

Also check:

• 10 Lines on Discipline
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250 Words Essay on Discipline

Introduction.

Discipline is the cornerstone of success and the foundation of personal growth. It is the process of training oneself in obedience, self-control, skill, and character. It is a vital aspect of life, not only in our personal lives but also in professional spheres.

The Essence of Discipline

Discipline is the invisible force that guides us in the right direction. It is a set of standards and principles that helps us navigate through life’s challenges. It encourages consistency, fosters resilience, and promotes self-control. The ability to maintain discipline can lead to a balanced life, filled with achievement and satisfaction.

Discipline and Success

Success and discipline are intertwined. The most successful individuals are often those who have mastered the art of self-discipline. They understand the value of time, the importance of perseverance, and the necessity of working towards their goals diligently. Discipline allows them to overcome obstacles, stay focused, and remain committed to their objectives.

Discipline in Education

In the realm of education, discipline plays a pivotal role. It fosters a conducive learning environment, promotes academic integrity, and encourages students to strive for excellence. A disciplined approach to studies can lead to better time management, effective learning strategies, and ultimately, academic success.

In conclusion, discipline is a fundamental component of our lives. It is the driving force behind our achievements, the pillar of our personal growth, and the key to success. By embracing discipline, we can unlock our full potential and lead a fulfilling, productive life.

500 Words Essay on Discipline

Discipline is an essential element that plays a pivotal role in shaping an individual’s life. It is a set of rules and regulations that guide our actions and behavior, helping us maintain a balanced and orderly life. It is not merely about adhering to societal norms but also about personal growth and development.

Discipline is the backbone of character. It instills in us the ability to make wise decisions, and it is the driving force behind the pursuit of excellence. It is not merely a constraint but a catalyst that propels us towards our goals. Self-discipline, in particular, is a powerful tool that aids in the cultivation of perseverance, resilience, and determination. It helps us focus on our goals and keeps us motivated in the face of adversity.

Discipline and Education

The role of discipline in education cannot be overstated. It is a critical factor in academic success. Discipline helps students to concentrate on their studies, manage their time effectively, and maintain a positive attitude towards learning. It fosters a conducive learning environment that promotes intellectual growth and creativity. Moreover, it helps students develop essential life skills such as punctuality, responsibility, and respect for others.

Discipline in Professional Life

In the professional sphere, discipline is equally important. It is the key to productivity and efficiency. A disciplined approach to work enables professionals to meet deadlines, maintain work-life balance, and achieve career goals. It cultivates a sense of responsibility and commitment, which are crucial for professional growth and success. Furthermore, discipline in the workplace fosters a culture of respect and cooperation, leading to a harmonious and productive work environment.

Discipline and Society

Discipline plays a significant role in the functioning of society. It ensures the smooth operation of social institutions and maintains peace and order. A disciplined society is marked by mutual respect, cooperation, and harmony. It promotes social justice and equality by ensuring that everyone adheres to the rules and regulations. In this way, discipline contributes to the overall development and progress of society.

In conclusion, discipline is an indispensable part of our lives. It is the cornerstone of personal, academic, professional, and societal success. It is a virtue that needs to be cultivated from an early age and practiced throughout life. Despite its perceived rigidity, discipline is not about restriction but about freedom – the freedom to grow, to learn, and to achieve our full potential. Therefore, it is incumbent upon us to embrace discipline in all aspects of our lives and strive for a balanced and fulfilling life.

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Maintaining Classroom Discipline

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Promoting Good Methods of Classroom Discipline

Helping students to govern their own behavior in ways that help them learn is a longstanding goal of all teachers. There are a number of ways that a teacher can promote good discipline in the classroom.

Know school guidelines for discipline procedures.

Be fair, positive and consistent. Be the kind of person young people can like and trust—firm, fair, friendly, courteous, enthusiastic and confident. Keep your sense of humor.

Provide a list of standards and consequences to parents and students. Make sure they are consistent with district and building policy. When in doubt, ask a colleague or your principal.

Keep your classroom orderly. Maintain a cheerful and attractive classroom rather than a disorderly one which might encourage disruptive behavior.

Get to know your students. Learn their names quickly and use them in and out of class. You will soon develop almost a sixth sense for anticipating trouble before it begins, but don’t act as though you expect trouble or you will almost certainly encounter some.

Let the students know you care. Determine jointly with the class what is acceptable in terms of behavior and achievement and what is not. Show interest in what students say, whether or not it pertains directly to the lesson.

Treat students with the same respect you expect from them; keep confidences.

Learn the meaning of terms, especially slang, used by students.

Begin class on time and in a professional manner.

Make learning fun . Make education interesting and relevant to the students’ lives. Poor planning and a full curriculum can provoke disruptions.

Praise good work, good responses and good behavior.

Don’t threaten or use sarcasm. Never use threats to enforce discipline. Never humiliate a child.

Avoid arguing with students. Discussions about class work are invaluable, but arguments can become emotional encounters.

Be mobile , moving around the room as students work or respond to instruction.

Keep your voice at a normal level. If “disaster” strikes and you trip over the wastebasket, don’t be afraid to laugh.

Grade assignments and return them as soon as possible.

Give reasonable assignments. Don’t use schoolwork as punishment. Give clear directions.

Keep rules simple . Establish as few classroom rules as possible, and keep them simple.

Handling Classroom Conflicts

Here are a few practical suggestions for dealing with an angry student in the classroom who is defying your authority and is out of control:

• Do not raise your voice.
• Try to remain calm and rational.
• Do not touch an agitated or angry student.
• Try to keep the student seated. In many instances, this is impossible. You can only suggest the student remain seated so that he might explain to you what is wrong.
• Be reassuring to the student as well as the rest of the class. Explain the importance of protecting every student’s right to learn. Talk about options for resolving the conflict.
• Send another student for help. The student should be told to go to the nearest office to summon assistance from the administration.
• After the incident is over, immediately document everything that happened. This documentation should include time, name(s) of student(s) involved, a brief description of the events that occurred, and any information that pertains to the student(s) or the incident. This report should be submitted to the administration. You also should keep a copy in case of a future conference with parents or school administrators regarding the incident.

What if I “blow” the first week?

If you “blow” the first week, don’t worry. Just re-evaluate your rules and policies, tell the class you’re making some changes, and be consistent from then on.

Expect the unexpected.

Schedules will be changed without warning and unanticipated events will occur. Be flexible in responding to the unexpected; ask your colleagues for suggestions on how to deal with situations like the following.

What will you do if:

• it rains at recess time?
• your class arrives too early at the cafeteria?
• a student tells you her pet died?
• a student tells you she is pregnant?
• a child wets his pants?
• a student is verbally abusive?
• a parent is angry and unreasonable?
• a student refuses to do what you ask?
• you have no textbooks?
• a student falls asleep?
• a student cuts her head falling out of her desk?
• you are called to the office in the middle of class?
• non-English speaking students are assigned to your class?
• a student has a seizure or goes into a coma?

Be fair to your students

Here are some ways to help you win the respect of your students:

• Be consisent in application of discipline and just in your requirements and assignments.
• Don’t refuse to let a student tell you his or her side of the situation. Be willing to consider mitigating circumstances.
• Don’t talk about the misdeeds of students except to those who have a right to know. Don’t openly compare one student to another.
• Apologize if you’ve treated a student unjustly.
• Make sure punishments are appropriate for the misbehavior, and explain to the student why he or she is being punished.

Discipline – The LEAST Approach.

There are several good methods of classroom discipline. One of the best is the LEAST Approach, developed by NEA, which helps you determine the appropriate level of involvement. If discipline problems can be handled at Step 1, there is no need to progress to Step 2, etc.

Briefly, the LEAST Approach includes these steps:

• Leave it alone. If the event is a brief and minor disturbance that is unlikely to occur again, leave it be.
• End the action indirectly. When learning is disrupted or someone may get hurt, let the student(s) involved know you are aware of the inappropriate activity with a facial expression, a body gesture, or a quiet action such as walking toward the student(s) or calling the student(s)’ name(s).
• Attend more fully. Secure more information from the student on who, what, when, where and why. Be objective rather than emotional.
• Spell out directions. When a situation threatens to get out of hand, making learning impossible or risking harm to someone, clearly explain to the student(s) involved the consequences of his/her actions and your intent to follow through.
• Treat student progress. Record what happened, when, where, who was involved, what you did, and who witnessed the incident.

Your Career• 3 Min read

7th December 2020

Top Tips For Maintaining Discipline In The Classroom

A disciplined classroom is essential for learners and teachers to succeed. Any teacher will tell you that having a loud, unruly class with a lack of discipline is not conducive to successful learning. Developing your classroom management skills is the key to maintaining a respectful and learning-positive environment. A bit of skill and planning, as well as getting pupils on board with your expectations and the consequences of their own actions, will pay dividends in the attention span and overall engagement in your lessons.

Why Is Maintaining Discipline Important?

A well-disciplined classroom means a more positive learning environment. Children, especially younger children, are naturally active creatures for whom sitting at a desk for 5 hours a day will not come naturally. Discipline doesn’t have to mean children sitting silently and listening to the teacher but it does mean contributing in a way that’s respectful to other members of the class. Removing distractions of unruly behaviours will enable all of your learners to concentrate on the lesson being delivered.

5 Ways To Management Classroom Discipline

1. create consistency.

Students of all ages will react positively to a consistent approach to discipline. It’s essential that your pupils know what is expected of them. Make it clear from the start what your expectations are for behaviour in your class. Ensuring that your pupils know the rules and why they are in place should be enough to stem most casual behaviour issues. If students are aware of the consequences of their actions they are less likely to misbehave in the first place. 

2. Make Sure Punishments and Rewards Are Clear

Involving students in the creation of rules or code of conduct for the classroom, such as by designing a poster or reward system for a display is a way to build your expectations into the class culture. Display the class code of conduct prominently in your classroom. Make sure that there are rewards for good behaviour as well as punishments for negative behaviours. For primary school children, a treat such as being able to wear their slippers for the day, getting to give out worksheets, or being the first to choose a book will often we enough to motivate good behaviour. For older children, an end of term pizza or Friday afternoon movie might be a suitable reward.

3. Don’t Reward Disruption With Attention

Most of the time, pupils act badly through boredom, disengagement or because they are seeking attention. Although it’s hard, try not to give the perpetrator too much of your attention. Deal with the culprit appropriately and in line with the class Code Of Conduct. Don’t allow the bad discipline to take over the lesson – deal with the incident and move quickly back to the learning activities you have planned.

4. Keep Things Exciting

Great classroom discipline goes hand in hand with lessons that capture your pupil’s interests. Get to know your students and their interests so that you can tailor lessons to be as engaging as possible for them. Does your class love Minecraft? There are some fantastic Minecraft based challenges here designed around in-person and remote learning. Do your students light up when they are outside? Find some great outdoor activities for older pupils here. Although it’s not always possible, planning engaging lessons that involve movement will reduce the likelihood of discipline issues, especially if your class can expend some energy at the same time!

READ MORE: Activities For Kinaesthetic Learners

5. Wipe The Slate Clean

Once a pupil has suffered the consequences of their actions, there is no point in dwelling on bad behaviour. No students are inherently ‘bad’ and it’s important that your pupils come to school with a fresh outlook each day. Make it clear to your pupils that you wipe the metaphorical slate clean daily and everyone gets a fresh chance each day.

Very few classes need zero behaviour monitoring, if you do get one, you can consider it a very rare find! Most classes have a wide mix of personalities and work ethics and it’s important to balance individual needs with the needs of the whole class. A consistent approach and great planning can reduce the amount of time you have to spend monitoring behaviour and develop a culture of good behaviour which will positively impact your student’s entire school career.

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How to maintain workplace discipline (a guide)

Searching for the best ways to maintain workplace discipline at your organization?

Ensuring that you have an efficient workplace disciplinary process in place is one of the easiest ways to keep things on track. It’ll keep your employees focused, give your managers an idea of how to deal with issues, and create transparency in your organization. 

But what are the best ways to maintain workplace discipline ?

In this article, we’ll help you choose the best discipline method for your organization. We’ll also guide you on how to create a positive approach to workplace discipline to ensure that your employees comply with your processes. 

This Article Contains:

Why is workplace discipline important, what are the various workplace discipline methods, the best approach to workplace discipline, 3 tips to maintain a disciplined workplace.

Let’s get started.

While this may seem obvious, workplace discipline has benefits that extend beyond simply keeping your employees focused. 

Creating common workplace discipline standards results in:

• All your employees following the same rules – thereby establishing uniformity and equality in your workplace
• Managers knowing what to look out for and what to do while stepping in for disciplinary reasons
• Employees abiding by various safety and security rules that could put them and your company at risk if disobeyed

Now that you know why enforcing workplace discipline is important, let’s go over the various discipline options you have at your disposal.

Ideally, avoid discipline methods that start and end with drastic measures like firing someone.

An extreme corrective action like this will create a fear-based environment in the office. And according to research , this can stress and demotivate your workforce, affecting their work performance in the long run. 

Additionally, by choosing to fire employees as your go-to solution, you’re missing out on the opportunity to educate them on what they were doing wrong, understand why they did it and help them avoid doing it in the future.

That’s why it’s important for you to focus on developing a discipline system that creates a healthy and positive work environment in the workplace.

Some common discipline methods are listed below: 

1. Progressive discipline system

This is one of the most popular discipline methods used around the world. 

What is it?

Instead of penalizing your employee for a small disciplinary issue, the problem is rectified by “progressively” escalating the disciplinary measure in a series of steps. 

For example, for an employee’s first disciplinary measure, you can start with a verbal warning, then progress to a written warning and other steps such as temporary pay cuts and suspensions. 

If none of the steps fail to correct employee conduct or bring any improvement in your employee’s performance, then you can opt for termination.

Why does it work?

As an employer, by using the progressive discipline policy , you’ll be able to take proportionate disciplinary action while mentoring your employees to do better. 

2. Performance improvement plans (PIPs)

If you’re dealing with poor performance at the workplace, chalking out a performance improvement plan (PIP) is an excellent method to ensure workplace discipline.

A PIP is a formal document that lists out the goals and actions required for employee performance improvement over a given timeline.

An effective PIP should give your employee an idea of what their current performance issues are and what you expect their improvements to be.

A PIP gives you employees a clear idea of where they’re falling short and what they need to do to improve. 

3. Positive disciplinary action and counselling

While progressive discipline is mostly based on warnings and reprimands, positive discipline focuses on positive reinforcement rather than punishment.

When taking positive disciplinary steps, the “positive” aspects of your employees’ performance are highlighted in a one-to-one discussion. 

For instance, you can begin your verbal counselling by appreciating your employees for their achievements – making them more receptive to feedback. 

Then, you can work together to create mutually agreed action plans to improve the performance issue. For example, you can explain how they do so many things right and should continue doing that instead of engaging in the behavior you want to discourage. 

By focusing on what they’re already doing well, you’re showing your employees that they’re already capable of abiding by workplace discipline rules. You’re simply asking them to continue what they’re doing well instead of focusing on what they’re doing poorly in. 

4. The traditional punitive approach

The traditional model of workplace discipline involves punishing employees without stepping in to understand why things went wrong or counselling them over what they can do to improve.  

This approach is “punishment-based” and was traditionally followed across many companies. 

Unlike the progressive discipline method, where punishments are staggered and give your employees a chance to improve, the punitive approach usually follows a one-size-fits-all approach.

Most infractions and behavioral issues are met with standard measures that might not be proportionate and create a deep feeling of resentment in your workforce.  

This approach could work in the short term because employees perform out of their fear of the consequences. This way, the overall performance of your organization may improve initially, however it isn’t sustainable.

Why doesn’t it work?

A punitive disciplinary approach often results in lowered employee morale and the creation of a fear-based work environment. This creates a toxic atmosphere that can’t support sustained behavioral changes. Often, employees will either revert back to their old ways once the punishment is over or simply leave your company out of fear. 

So what’s the best disciplinary option out there?

With so many different methods available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and just go with the first one you see.

And even though progressive discipline is extremely popular, it’s still highly punitive in nature since it focuses on punishment – rather than helping the employees learn how to be better. 

Adopting a positive, instead of punitive, approach to workplace discipline will help you design a sound disciplinary system that will motivate your employees to perform better. 

However, solely using a positive approach might not be beneficial when you’re dealing with chronic misbehavior or in cases where the worker isn’t responsive to interventions.

That’s why it’s always a good idea to combine both these methods to create a holistic discipline process for your employees. The following quick guide will help you apply the concepts of the progressive discipline process into your workplace in a positive manner to get the best of both worlds:

Step 1: Create an employee handbook

To start with, create a comprehensive and easy-to-understand employee handbook that covers your company policies, performance standards, and other work aspects such as dress codes. 

Remember, ensuring that your employees have a good idea of what’s expected of them is one of the easiest ways to get them to follow your guidelines from the get-go.

Also, ensure that the employee handbook is revised periodically to take any new changes into account.

Step 2: Conduct performance discussions

Instead of opting for a formal “disciplinary hearing,” conduct one-on-one performance discussions with your employees. HR professionals should use this time to go over what they’re doing well and where they can improve along with the steps they need to take.

Ensure that your supervisor adopts a friendly, rehabilitative approach to talk about problematic behavior and disciplinary issues. 

Be careful not to use a condescending or threatening tone in such discussions. It can make the employee nervous and fearful – which ruins the purpose of these meetings!

Step 3: Create a PIP

Create a performance improvement plan (PIP) that your employees can follow. Highlight their current strengths, potential focus areas, and steps that they need to take.

This way, your employees have an idea of where they need to improve and what they need to do to improve. Additionally, by setting clear goals here, you can easily gauge your employee’s performance in the coming months.

Step 4: Use incentives as a tool for motivation

It’s important for your human resource department to congratulate and reward your workers if they show continual improvement.

This will encourage them to continue growing and will motivate them to work harder and consistently abide by your disciplinary policies.

Step 5: Use punishments when needed

If your employees aren’t responding to your interventions and are still exhibiting misconduct and tardiness, it’s time to take a punitive approach.

Use the progressive discipline approach to punish your employees in a staggered, proportionate manner. This gives them enough time to recognize their problems and make the necessary changes to their actions.

However, if an employee still refuses to make any amends or consistently displays insubordination, then it’s best to fire them. Remember that this step should only be considered as a last resort and should only be used when you’ve exhausted all other options.

Now you know the right approach to workplace discipline, here’s some tips on how to maintain a disciplined workplace:

1. Use employee productivity tools

Since many employee discipline policies focus on helping employees become more productive , why not use an employee productivity tool to help them out? 

These tools will help them:

• Organize their work and hours better
• Manage distractions to boost focus and to avoid employee misconduct
• Abide by company policies on what to access online

Time Doctor is one such employee productivity tool that’s used by large companies like Apple and SMBs like Firehouse Subs. 

This tool helps employees track how they’re performing – reducing the need for an employer to micromanage them.

How does it do this?

• Employees can use Time Doctor to self-monitor the time they’re spending on tasks. This creates accountability and self-discipline as they’re in charge of their own time.
• They can use TimeDoctor’s reporting feature to generate productivity reports for insights into how they’re performing and where they can improve.
• They can also use the app to ensure that they are not getting distracted by non-work-related sites like social media.

2. Provide incentives for following workplace rules

While this should be part of your rehabilitative disciplinary process, rewards shouldn’t just be limited to employees in PIPs.

Rewarding all your employees for their productivity and good behavior at work can lead to long-term returns. It can encourage your staff to maintain good employee conduct – boosting the morale of your entire workforce. This, in turn, creates a positive work atmosphere for all your employees.

3. Ensure that everyone follows your discipline policy 

Regardless of how detailed and comprehensive your discipline policy is, if you, as a leader, are not following the rules yourself, then it won’t have the desired effect on your employee’s behavior. 

If all these workplace rules and regulations are only applicable to a selection of your staff, then they’ll feel targeted and resentful towards the regulations. This, in turn, can lead them to purposely flouting these workplace rules because they feel that they’re being treated unfairly.

To avoid this, ensure that your managers lead by example. When the rest of your staff sees their managers carefully following these rules, then they’ll soon follow suit! 

Final thoughts

Disciplining employees can turn out to be a tricky process if your disciplinary system is not employee centric. 

At times, it can be too focused on punishment – which leads to short-term gains but long-term losses in morale and organizational culture. On the other hand, a lenient approach might not have a strong enough impact to deter unacceptable behavior or gross misconduct at the workplace. 

That’s why it’s important to adopt a combination of various disciplinary measures when creating a process for your company. Once you find the right balance, you’ll be able to create procedures that help employees easily recognize their faults and take the necessary steps to grow.

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