Hey everyone,
I’ve been doing some thinking regarding discipline. See what you think of it. Personally, my opinion on discipline has definitely changed over time. I do think its really really important, thats why I’m writing this and I hope it helps someone.
Discipline is one of those virtues that often feels like a chore at first, but when practiced consistently, it transforms into a cornerstone of a well-lived life. Reflecting on some compelling perspectives from various thinkers and speakers that emphasize how small acts of discipline can have a profound impact on our daily lives - and even on our spiritual and mental well-being - I found out some stuff.
Let’s start with Admiral William H. McRaven. In his famous commencement speech and book, Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life…and Maybe the World, McRaven stresses the importance of starting each day with a simple, achievable act: making your bed. This might seem trivial, but it sets the tone for the rest of your day. Completing that one small task gives you a sense of accomplishment, no matter what else the day throws at you. It’s a first win, a psychological boost, and a reminder that even in chaos, small things can be brought to order. I’ll be frank here: At first I didn’t understand the point of having a made bed when you come back home. I thought, why not do it later or the next day when going back to sleep? 
Likewise, Jordan Peterson often advises people to “tidy up your room.” On the surface, it’s practical advice - an organized space is easier to navigate and more pleasant to inhabit. But on a deeper level, it’s about taking control of your immediate environment as a way of bringing order to your mind and your life. When you tidy your room, you’re engaging in a symbolic act of taming chaos. You’re telling yourself that you have the power to improve your surroundings, one small step at a time. Aside from that, it gives unexpected freedom, that is, with a “tidy room” (house, apartment, life, etc, etc, insert what you need), you are much more free to express yourself. There is a groundedness and stability within you from such a simple act. You cannot be easily criticized anymore, and you are able to self-reflect, observe and understand where others’ issues lie who enjoy pointing fingers rather than looking within. With a tidy room, you can look in the mirror and feel good about yourself.
In my own experience, I’ve noticed this: the more I keep my house tidy, the more it feels like there’s a better flow of energy. A clean and organized environment creates space - not just physical space, but mental and emotional space too. When the kitchen is clean, the garbage is taken out, and the bed is made, I find it easier to focus on new projects, creative pursuits, or even just relaxing without guilt. There’s a sense of clarity and openness that comes from decluttering. It’s as if the act of creating order externally also aligns something internally. This is super important. The soul craves creativity. By having a clean environment, you give the soul a basis to let creativity unfold and flourish. Thats the real growth. So cleaning up is almost like caring for a plant, giving it the best environment in order to have it blossom.
This brings to mind something I heard RFK Jr. say on a podcast: “We have all these little choices on a daily basis. I think that’s the way we find God within.” (Paraphrasing here - he said it very eloquently and a bit longer, but that was more or less the essence). Discipline is often about these small, daily choices. It’s not just about rigid self-control, super resilience and crazy willpower, no, it’s about aligning our actions with our values and intentions. When we choose to tidy our space, take out the trash, or make the bed, we’re not just cleaning - we’re engaging in an act of care and respect, both for ourselves and for the spaces we inhabit. This can also have a ripple effect on others: Notice how previously annoying neighbors start displaying better behavior once you exhibit your space in such a neat way. Sure, it may take time. But we can follow this path and make it a lifestyle.
Marie Kondo’s approach to decluttering resonates deeply with this idea. I remember posting on the forum here that I gave one of her books to my friend, and when I returned in the evening, he had several boxes outside - all filled with stuff he does not need anymore. In Marie’s books and methods, she emphasizes the importance of keeping only those things that “spark joy.” Her philosophy isn’t just about having a clean house; it’s about creating an environment that uplifts you and reflects who you are. Decluttering becomes a way of resetting your energy, letting go of what no longer serves you, and making space for what truly matters. Because, let’s be honest here, we not only accumulate countless digital data junk, but also physical. And the physical can weigh heavy at times; old items, old clothes, etc. Simply look around and see. Do you still resonate with all the stuff in your home? Is it time to let go of some?
At its core, discipline is a tool of momentum. Each small act builds on the one before it, creating a positive cycle. When we make our bed, tidy our room, or declutter our homes, we’re doing more than just organizing our spaces. We’re creating an environment where energy flows freely, where we can focus on what’s important, and where we’re not weighed down by the nagging presence of unfinished tasks. I’m sure you know that feeling… Deadlines, deadlines, deadlines… You can’t seem to catch a break, no matter how hard you try. The workload becomes unbearable. And despite your good intentions of wanting to accomplish all of them, you simply cannot find it in yourself to complete them. Even doubt creeps in… “Do I lack the energy/willpower/strength/intelligence?” Its tough, and its looming large. That’s why the clarity and flow that come from such a renewed and neat environment often extend into other areas of our lives, helping us tackle challenges with greater ease and creativity. We don’t carry that extra weight anymore, hence we have more strength to go on.
So you see, the act of discipline is quite the spiritual pursuit. If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or out of alignment, consider starting small. Make your bed. Tidy your room. Take out the trash. Choose one small act of discipline and let it set the tone for the rest of your day. You might be surprised at how much lighter and more energized you feel. And who knows? You might just discover a little more of yourself in the process. Give the soul a space to shine 
