Work, Discipline and Diligence

As you have seen, I have talked a lot about how to achieve your goals and that getting out of debt requires a behavior modification that is like the discipline that is required to lose weight.  That's why it's so hard and most people don't do it.  Last night we read a chapter in More Than Enough that was absolutely amazing.  I can't say enough about this book, it will truly change the way you look at things in life.  The chapter is called Good, Better, Best: Work, Discipline, Diligence.  The basic premise is (and this was another gem): Work is doing it, discipline is doing it everyday and diligence is doing it everyday well.  This theme was weaved throughout the chapter, plus it goes along great with this week's tip, focus. 


If you are struggling with making ends meet right now, work is a sure fire way to help.  It not only keeps you busy so you don't have time to worry, but it has the great side-effect of bringing in more money to help your situation.  Work is very good in these situations.  Now because work is good, then discipline is better because it is an everyday effort.  It's those little daily, monthly and yearly things that make a huge difference, especially with investing.  (I will have another post about this another time.)  To have discipline with your money is more than not buying that new pair of shoes that are on sale or passing up lunch with co-workers.  That's just will power and that won't get you more than a few weeks, tops.  Discipline is about seeing the big picture (your goals) on a daily basis.  It's a decision, a choice you have to make.   If you can do this you will develop diligence.  


Diligence is work and discipline done well.  This attitude trait is what separates the rich from the poor and why the rich get richer while the poor get poorer.  Think about it, when you show up at work with an attitude of diligence, can you guess what will happen?  Sooner or later someone will notice the difference in what you are doing.  No matter what your profession or rate of pay.  Diligence will always pay off in the end, whether you are trying to lose weight or get out of debt.  Since I liked it so much here is a bonus quote for you, "There is no shortcut to any place that is worth going" Beverly Sills.  I've said it before and I'll say it again, you have to pay the price to win, especially when it comes to your finances.