Self-Discipline is the key to Spiritual Success and Progress

Self-Discipline is the key to Spiritual Success and Progress

Self-discipline is not a matter of intelligence. It is a matter of will and emotion as stated by Dr S. Radhakrishan, a great Indian philosopher and late President of India. Discipline is an essential part of our life. In fact, without discipline in life, we cannot work smoothly.

Parents, elders of the family and the teachers are the first persons to introduce the sense of discipline to the children. Discipline must be learnt from the early stages of life. It ensures the smooth flow of life without putting hindrance to the individual's liberty.

It teaches us to be systematic towards achieving our goal of life. It helps us to achieve our ambitions. Learning self-discipline in the little things of life prepares the way for big successes. On the other hand, those, who are undisciplined in small matters, will likely be undisciplined in more important issues.

When it comes to the matter of maintaining a person's integrity and credibility, there are no small issues. Self-discipline is also necessary for spiritual progress.

Unruly thoughts, attractions of the senses, lustful desires, anger, covetousness and avarice constantly arise in the mind of the person, who has no mental discipline; and these impel him to do evil deeds.

If a person cannot direct his thoughts, desires and actions according to his own will, how can he possibly direct his self to God and keep his life on the path of truth? Unless the higher mind is strengthened and the strong will power is maintained to master the impulses of the flesh in mind, there will be little room for God to dwell in that mind.

Thus, central to the spiritual life is self-discipline. In The Shrimad Bhagwat Gita, Lord Krishna emphasised on self–discipline, thus: A man of disciplined mind, who moves among the objects of senses, with senses under control and free from attachment and aversion, attains purity of spirit (Chapt-2: 64).

Managing your mind is the first step to becoming the ruler of your life. One can learn to manage the mind by learning Rajyoga.

Rajyoga helps people to manage their inner resources effectively and access the strength required to deal with different distractions. It makes one mentally and physically strong and disciplined, as they can let go of fears or situations that have been holding him/her back from what he/she wants to achieve.

Life cannot be truly understood and enjoyed through constant indulgence and distraction. They need to be dusted away through spirituality and practice of Rajyoga Meditation in order to reveal the beautiful, pristine and pure self.