Discipline: The Way to Progress

​by: Ame-Phil O. Saquiban

​Most of those who have gone or toured around the world commented that nations that are more progressive observe the value of discipline, where the citizens and residents observe the laws and abide with existing policies. While there are clear systems or rules governing the conduct of the people, the value system of the people also plays a critical role in strengthening discipline.
 
However, sometimes there are people who would have negative connotations about discipline, as it is associated with punishment for wrong actions, corrective measures, or enforcing penalties to exact obedience to rules and regulations. But others would view it as an essential element to establish order and attain success. Hence, developing and strengthening the value of discipline is vital in nation building. The lack of it will compromise the initiatives to establish peace and order as well as promote sustainable development.
 
In reality, discipline comes with short-term pain but with long-term gain, as it has been said that all discipline seems to be painful at the time, yet later it will produce a transformation of character, bringing a harvest of righteousness and peace to those who yield to it. Yielding to the process of discipline may not sit well in a culture where quick-fix mentality and instant gratification prevail for such condition encourages the use of different means, whether lawful or not, to get and do what they want.
 
As we contemplate on the value of discipline this week, let us reflect our personal take or how we perceive the role of discipline in fulfilling the mandate of our respective offices. Also, explore how are we contributing in observing discipline at home, at work and in the community. Have we done something that does or does not promote or model discipline?
 
It is not too late yet. We can start to embrace and manifest discipline today. It does not require a grand gesture as a famous quotation states, “Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become your character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny”. It can start with a single thought that will become part of your language and translated in your day-to-day actions.  When done consistently and accurately, it becomes part of you. Make discipline our new operating system towards progress.