Rule your mind, or it will rule you. Horace
As I was considering the conclusion of our four pronged series on the teaching of Dr. William Glasser and his concept of “positive addictions,” I was struck by the similarities between Glasser’s final point and the final chapter of my book on female mate selection “Dump the Neanderthal and Choose your Prime Mate.” Glasser’s final positive addiction is:
Self Discipline
To review the other positive addictions were as follows:
1. Giving and receiving love
2. Gaining worth and recognition
3. Having fun
While the above three represent a “road map” for a successful and productive life, Dr. Glasser informs us that the most important and determinative quality is our ability to self-discipline; to direct our actions in accordance with our goals and values. It is the vehicle for the implementation of the first three positive addictions, but it is also a rewarding experience unto itself. While “having fun” in the appropriate manner, which is characterized by moderation and control, is pleasurable, self-discipline is probably more satisfying. It conveys an overall feeling of well-being and satisfaction in the realization for doing the right thing.
Which takes me to the final chapter of my book, “Do the Right Thing.” As my readers know, the second half of “Neanderthal” is an outline of my approach as a cognitive counselor. It explains a process for self-understanding through logical thinking, which is applicable to women avoiding relationship errors (or recovering from past ones), but is also applicable to any problem or reader, male or female. The idea of doing the right thing is based upon the understanding that we all have (absent sociopathy) an internal compass that unfailingly points us toward proper action. Simply stated, it is our conscience. We may not always follow the directive of that inner voice, but it is always there.
We can choose to listen. Or we can opt to ignore it. But it is always there, and it is the key to self-discipline.
Homework: Turn up the volume on that “inner voice” and experience the gratifying knowledge that flows from applying Glasser’s self-discipline to some important goal or meaningful decision. It will feel good to do so.
And, guaranteed, you will be happier.
It was character that gets us out of bed; commitment that moves us into action and discipline that enables us to follow through. –Zig Ziglar