Discipline seems to be one of those behaviors that I crave. Sure, I have discipline in my life, but it’s not always where I really want (and need) it to be.

Something about tagging discipline to healthy habits has an obvious correlation but somewhat of a negative feel. And of course, if you put too much discipline in your life, then you’re not having any fun, right? Still, not enough and you may regret the undone or overdone.

Discipline is critical for maintaining good health. You can’t live on junk food and expect to stay healthy. The same goes for your career. You can’t slack off or disregard your deadlines and hope to move up the ladder. While discipline is a must for survival in your personal and professional life, the habit doesn’t come easy.

To help you build the habit of discipline, check out these six picks:

Discipline Equals Freedom Field Manual by Jocko Willink. Navy SEAL Officer, podcaster, author, and founder of leadership and success global consultancy Echelon Front, Jocko Willink is an authority on discipline. In Discipline Equals Freedom, his first book, he shares why we believe we’re not disciplined and resort to procrastination—both roadblocks on the journey of becoming an Eminently Qualified Human. He goes on to explain why we use excuses and delaying tactics to hold ourselves back instead of acting and introduces the strategy of setting standards for increasing your likelihood of success.

The Power of Discipline: How to Use Self Control and Mental Toughness to Achieve Your Goals by Daniel Walter. A solid foundation of self-discipline is required before you achieve anything in your life. It keeps you sane, focused, and moving forward whenever life throws you curveballs. In this book, Walter teaches the fundamentals of mental toughness required to dismantle the limitations of your mind so that you can turn your dreams into reality.

The Science of Self-Discipline: The Willpower, Mental Toughness, and Self-Control to Resist Temptation and Achieve Your Goals (Live a Disciplined Life Book 1) by Peter Hollins. Hollins’ book is touted as a “roadmap to the human psyche,” inviting you into a journey of deep understanding of what makes you tick. When you examine your triggers, cravings, and obstacles, you’ll discover how to thoughtfully
manage them and rise above. This book teaches you how to move past temporary discomfort and drive what really matters.

Discipline = Power: How to Master Self Control, Build Better Habits, and Achieve Your Goals by Devin White.This book shows you how to liberate yourself from excuses, distractions, temptations, and yes, pure laziness. Inherently, you’re motivated, but something is standing in your way of action. White helps you unlock that mystery and explore your true relationship with discipline and how you can make it your ally. Packed with tips, tutorials, and techniques for overcoming obstacles, Discipline = Power is designed to help you finally realize your dreams.

Mindful Self-Discipline: Living with Purpose and Achieving Your Goals in a World of Distractions by Giovanni Dienstmann and Roy F. Baumeister, Ph.D. This book stresses the power of intention and living a life of purpose. This requires discipline, the “superpower of focus in a world of distractions.” Bringing his skills as meditation teacher and coach, Giovanni helps his global list of clients push past derailing thoughts and habits and teaches them how to gently step into a space that’s filled with hope. His foundational work is less about willpower and forcefulness and more about transformation, mindfulness, and rooted in living a life of purpose.

No Excuses! The Power of Self-discipline by Brian Tracy. Celebrated personal success guru and author, Brian Tracy, challenges you to get over yourself. Instead of taking the “someday” approach, Tracy boldly dares you to break free from self-limited beliefs, the easy way out, and the path of least resistance. For those who need a good wake up call, Tracy provides actional advice and strategies for stepping out of your comfort zone and onto the success path. The three areas of focus in this book are personal, business/money, and overall happiness goals, and the disciplined approach needed to achieve them.

Here are some areas that may crave more discipline:

1. Meeting Deadlines
2. Prioritizing What Really Matters Versus Tasks
3. Follow Up and Follow Through
4. Personal Development
5. Building Mutually Beneficial Relationships
6. Leaving Work at Work
7. Shutting Down Electronics From Time To Time
8. Avoiding Distractions
9. Avoiding Being a Distraction
10. Time Management

These six picks will help you master discipline in all these areas and beyond.

Source and Images Courtesy of St. Martin’s Press, Pete Hollins, Giovanni Dienstmann