If done correctly, self-discipline is not hard at all.

How do I know this? Because I am a very disciplined person.

Every morning, I wake up at 4:30 AM (even on weekends), write a new article, record a new podcast episode, and spend two hours working on my next book projects, while having a full-time job. I weight-lift three times a week, run twice a week, and meditate for 2+ hours daily. In addition, I don't consume candy, soda, meat, alcohol, and even coffee (except for half-marathons).

Yet, I enjoy my "disciplined" life, without the slightest need for willpower.

True self-discipline is self-acceptance and self-compassion

In this beautiful article, mega-bestselling author Mark Manson illustrates the flaws of classic self-discipline. By exerting willpower, denying gratifications, and shaming yourself, you will dramatically backfire (as you probably know).

The solution?

• Realize first that you are not a horrible person because you slipped or failed your commitment

• Instead of numbing your internal pain with alcohol, video games, scrolling, or other compulsions, do a thorough self-reflection. Go down to your internal basement and start loving yourself for who you are right now. Let all tensions and tears come out (gradually).

To quote Mark Manson, these two things will happen once you start loving all aspects of yourself:

"1) There’s nothing to numb anymore. Therefore, suddenly those tubs of ice cream seem pointless. 2) You see no reason to punish yourself. On the contrary, you like yourself, so you want to take care of yourself. More importantly, it feels good to take care of yourself."

How you become effortlessly self-disciplined with Total Living

In this article, I mention that you consist of the executive mind and intuitive mind. Your executive mind wants to progress in all areas while your intuitive mind wants all fun in the world, right now. The solution is a joint negotiation with yourself every day, a win-win solution for both minds.

Thanks to the Barbell System (more info here), you will spend time totally focused on your important work, and the rest of the time in playful spontaneity. I personally dedicate early mornings for output time while spending the rest of the day with lighter work and playful moments (Beach Buggy Racing 2 as of this writing).

In addition, here are two other ways total living will get you sliding on track:

• By being totally present, all activities are enjoyable. This is because total presence is the optimum mental state for being.

• Know that pain, discomfort, boredom are good for you. You are personally antifragile and will become even stronger by doing things you fear. Plus the pleasure will be extremely high afterward.