Navy SEALs say it best: “You don’t rise to the level of your goals, you fall to the level of your discipline — train accordingly.”
As we enter the month of June, I’m reminded of just how true this is. For my hitters, May, June and July represent the Application Phase—The Show. This is where all of the work done in the off-season is put to the test.
And when August, September and October arrive, we shift into the Assessment Phase—The Lab, where we evaluate, refine and build again. This cycle repeats, but the foundation for everything is discipline.
What is Discipline?
I define discipline as doing the things I need to do, even when and especially when I don’t want to do them.
Everybody has goals—but goals mean nothing without discipline. Without discipline, you can’t sustain anything meaningful or valuable for the long term. The good news? Discipline isn’t something you’re simply born with. It can be taught. It can be trained. And just like physical muscles, your discipline muscles grow stronger with consistent reps.
For me, discipline starts with the small things I’d rather avoid:
- Reading my Bible daily
- Eating healthy
- Making my bed
When I consistently do these small things, my discipline muscles get stronger. Just like lifting weights, using resistance bands or grinding through kettlebell sets in the training room—these small disciplines create the strength to handle bigger challenges.
5 Simple Ways to Develop Your Discipline Muscles
1. Identify What You Don’t Want to Do (But Need to Do)
Start small. Make a list of three simple actions you avoid but know will improve your life. Then commit to them daily.
2. Create Micro Habits
Break big goals into small, manageable daily habits. Read one chapter. Prep one healthy meal. Make your bed. Small wins create momentum.
3. Set Clear Accountability
Find someone who will check in with you regularly. This could be a mentor, friend or coach who can help you measure your consistency.
4. Delay Gratification
Practice saying “no” in the short term to enjoy greater rewards later. Whether it’s food, spending or distractions — build your self-control through sacrifice.
5. Give Yourself Grace, But Stay Honest
You will miss days. You will fail. When you do, acknowledge it, recalibrate and start again. Avoid shame. Embrace growth.
Discipline: The Muscle Behind the Mission
If you want lasting success — whether in baseball, business, faith, or family — you don’t need more motivation. You need more discipline. And discipline is built one rep, one choice, one uncomfortable decision at a time.
This is why I train. This is why my hitters train. And this is why I encourage you to share this blog with your circle. Somebody in your network needs this reminder today: train accordingly.
Remember: Intelligence tops being smart.
For more information, visit www.diamonddirectors.com today.
If you found this inspiring and thought-provoking, or if you have any questions, comments or concerns, add me on Discord and let’s go deeper.
C.J. Stewart has built a reputation as one of the leading professional hitting instructors in the country. He is a former professional baseball player in the Chicago Cubs organization and has also served as an associate scout for the Cincinnati Reds. As founder and CEO of Diamond Directors Player Development, C.J. has more than 22 years of player development experience and has built an impressive list of clients, including some of the top young prospects in baseball today. If your desire is to change your game for the better, C.J. Stewart has a proven system of development and a track record of success that can work for you.
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