MANTHAN (मंथन)

If we want to master anything in life, one of the key prerequisites is discipline. Whether it is learning to play a new musical instrument or studying for that competitive exam, following a certain discipline can take us a long way.

Even your day-to-day work at home can be handled in a much productive way if you follow a certain discipline. When it comes to teaching children or training your colleagues at work, a certain order or a set of rules helps to make the collaboration more effective. Lack of such discipline typically leads to under-achievement or even failure. But human tendency is such that they don’t like to be told to behave in certain way and this is where the conflict is created.

A number of organization enforce discipline using force. The purpose of such regimentation is to establish strict control over behavior and activities. Regimentation typically is characterized by lack of flexibility. And those who love this kind of strict adherence to rules, often expect everyone else to follow the same.

Such a regimental approach whether employed by a teacher, a coach or a manager, can leave students, athletes and employees discouraged and uninspired, says Daaji. It also breeds disinterest in the program and results in a high drop-out or turnover rate.

We all may be able to recollect two distinct types of teachers we may have seen in our schools – those who were very strict and unforgiving and those few who would ensure learning through a discipline that was full of love. Discipline without love is incomplete.

Daaji says – the paradox within regimentation arises when the very structure meant to enhance efficiency and ensure consistency becomes a barrier to innovation, creativity and personal growth.

True discipline comes from within our hearts, and not from an outside rule or force. It cultivates moderation in our external behavior, enhancing our focus and clarity. And as we consistently pursue the activities that we find beneficial to us, they become habits. And when an activity becomes a habit, the burden of discipline falls away !