“Discipline equals freedom.” — Jocko Willink

You want more freedom? Add a pinch of discipline.

Discipline and freedom are a strange dichotomy at first glance. Most people associate discipline with being in a cage doing undesirable things. But the truth is this: freedom requires discipline.

What is discipline?

• Focus on the positive and eliminate the negative.

• Make time for the things that matter most in life.

• Get up early when the alarm clocks goes off.

• Treat people with kindness and respect.

• Fuel the body with healthy food.

• Make and measure progress.

• Exercise the mind and body.

Discipline is about establishing structure through a system. You prioritize the things you do against your goals and aspirations. You schedule them at the optimal time of day. You show up consistently and make process. You become efficient.

NO becomes your favorite word. Anything not aligned with your interests gets a firm NO without hesitation. Your system combined with the magic word NO provides the freedom to do what matters most.

What is freedom?

• Derive happiness by doing meaningful things.

• Perceive the world on your own terms.

• Self-direct thoughts and actions.

• Find purpose through meaning.

• Master new skills.

When chaos reigns, life directs you on a stormy sea. You are reactive, not proactive. The resulting churn eats up all of your time. No progress is made.

When discipline reigns, you are self-directed in a safe harbor, protected from the stormy sea. Life still throws things at you, but you are largely in control and focused.

Add discipline today and you’ll have more freedom tomorrow.