I realized that if I wanted a different experience, I needed to choose differently.
For starters, I had to stop returning to the same environment or energy that presented me with the same experiences.
"أدرّب نفسي على الصمت، تحديدًا في الأوقات التي أعرف فيها مدى حدّة الكلام الذي سيخرج مني."
Listen, O Liberty, and harken unto us. Turn your gaze towards us, O mother of the earth’s inhabitants. For we are not the offspring of your rival. Speak with the tongue of any one of us; for from one spark the draw straw catches fire. Awaken the sound of your wings the spirit of one of our men; for from one cloud one lightning flash illuminates valley-lanes and mountain- tops. Disperse with your resolve these dark clouds. Descend as a thunderbolt. Destroy like a catapult the props of those thrones erected on bones and skulls; plated with the gold of taxes and bribery; soaked in blood and tears. Listen to us, O Liberty. Have compassion on us, O Daughter of Athens. Rescue us, O Sister of Rome. Save us, O Companion of Moses. Come to our aid, O beloved of Mohammad. Teach us, O bride of Jesus. Strengthen our hearts that we may live; or strengthen the arms of our enemies against us that we may wither, perish and find peace. - Khalil Gibran
Ibn-al Jawzi (رحمه الله) said :
“Beware of procrastination for it is the highest ranking soldier of iblis.”
— [Sayd al-Khaatir, pg. 466-467] 20/5/22
You really are your worst enemy if you don’t have discipline
1. Set clear goals. What do you want to accomplish and why does it matter to you? Break the goals into small, actionable steps (feels doable).
2. Create a daily schedule that prioritizes most important items on the list. Keep it consistent to form habits over time.
3. Start small. Focus on one discipline building habit at a time to avoid getting overwhelmed. Gradually increase your commitments little by little.
4. Get rid of distractions that hinder your focus (e.g., social media during work).
5. Use accountability partners if possible. And/or track your habits. Use an app or check off from your list (this feels so good!)
6. Have self control! Resist small urges to build willpower (e.g., delay instant gratification). Commit to showing up even when you don’t feel like it. Especially when you don’t feel like it.
7. Stay consistent. Discipline is built by sticking to your commitments daily, not just when it’s convenient. Progress, not perfection is what matters.
8. Embrace the discomfort. Challenges are growth opportunities. Train yourself to act despite discomfort or boredom.
9. Celebrate every win & reward yourself for milestones to stay motivated.
10. Reflect on failures without judgment and adjust your plan. You will have to adjust your plans quite a few times. Don’t get set in your ways.
11. Spend time with disciplined and goal oriented people. You become who you surround yourself with. Their habits will inspire and influence you positively.
12. Keep your WHY in mind.
O Lord, how many people say Your name without being truthful in their hearts?
The life we have is a reflection of our actions. Our actions are a reflection of how we feel about ourselves. If you want to change your life work on changing yourself. POINT BLANK. What you plan on doing doesn’t mean shit if you’re not doing something about it NOW. TODAY. Doesn’t matter how slow you go or how little you do as long as you show up EVERY DAY.