For almost fifteen years of my life, I was used to getting up before sunrise, showering, shaving every day, putting on my uniform that I had starched and ironed the night before, eating breakfast, and driving to work all before the sun cracked the horizon.
Every day. Without fail. Burning through razor blades and cans of starch because not only was I required to do these things, but I had to do them precisely and excellently.
I worked out daily, was at least five minutes early for every meeting, and only left the office after every one of my airmen had already gone home.
Because I was required to do those things. Because I had discipline coming out of my ears.
But now, only four years removed from military life, I’ve lost my discipline.
Photo Credit: Frederic Mancosu
I’m not required to be clean shaven every day, and I can wear shorts and show up late. No one is going to gasp or wonder why I didn’t work out that day or why I spent the morning working from home.
But I need that discipline back.
I’m reminded that the discipline I learned made me who I am; I’m concerned that I am slipping in my responsibilities to keep my mind and body sharp. I’m no longer responsible to a commander or mission or troops… Right now, It’s only my personal discipline that keeps me in line.
So here’s my commitment to renewed discipline:
To exercise my mind, body, and spirit, daily.
To not “go home” before my tribe is cared for.
To exercise my authority when necessary.
Does this apply to you? Are there disciplines in your life that you’ve let slip or completely fall away? Share and we can help each other stay accountable.