Self-discipline is a crucial skill that can help you reach professional goals and milestones. It describes your ability to focus on a task or goal to accomplish it. You likely have strong self-discipline if you’re consistent, responsible, ambitious and persistent.

In the workplace, self-discipline may look like being able to easily motivate yourself to do exciting and uninteresting tasks, being punctual and having a strong work ethic. It can make the difference between knowing your goals and achieving them.

Improving your self-discipline is an exercise of the mind. Similar to strengthening a muscle, your self-discipline can be improved with practice. Whether you struggle with self-discipline or pride yourself on your ability to focus, here are some strategies for enhancing self-discipline at work:

• Begin small. Start by selecting an area of your life where you could benefit from greater selfdiscipline and focus on a particular task you could improve, like meeting all your deadlines. Continue to practice until discipline becomes a habit.

• Confront your perception. You may be able to accomplish more than you believe is possible. Challenge your notions of what you can and cannot achieve to strive for new accomplishments.

• Make tasks manageable. If you’re struggling to complete a large task, divide it into several smaller assignments. Take breaks when you need to refresh your energy or boost motivation.

• Create time for high-priority tasks. Maximize your attention span by scheduling time to focus on certain essential tasks. Although multitasking may be necessary throughout the day, creating space in your calendar for high-priority responsibilities can help you complete them promptly.

• Avoid distractions. Resist the urge to check your phone or talk to a co-worker when completing tedious tasks. This helps improve your selfcontrol, which can ultimately strengthen your self-discipline.

• Set achievable goals. Give yourself something to work toward by setting goals you can accomplish. This can motivate you to keep practicing self-discipline even when it’s difficult.

Exercising self-discipline can make challenging tasks seem more manageable. It can also help you advance your career by reaching long-term goals. Staying focused and practicing self-discipline even when you fail is a vital way to set yourself up for
future professional success.