Discipline
Discipline is remembering what you want.
- David Campbell
Last summer I ran across the above quote during an artist’s talk about their work. I really love this quote.
One of the common themes running through the comments by readers on my blog is that I seem to get a lot done. I think this quote captures a lot of the reason why I accomplish so much. I know what I want, so I try to keep that in focus. While the discipline is important I think it’s also important to have goals. Without them it’s hard to know where to focus.
I did a search for other quotes about discipline and liked these also:
Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.
- Jim Rohn
Discipline is the refining fire by which talent becomes ability.
- Roy L Smith
The next 2 weeks I’m going to need a lot of discipline to avoid working long hours of overtime from the day job as a software engineer. I’ve always found it easier to stay focused in my studio than at work. Probably because my studio is more fun. Although I do enjoy my work so I need to try to keep these quotes in mind as I attempt to make it through some unrealistic deadlines.
If I stay focused today I can spend the entire weekend in my studio. So time to get motivated and get back to writing requirements so I don’t have to bring my lap top home tonight.
Posted by Lisa in: Goals and Intention
Tagged: david campbell, discipline
I think along with goals or maybe similarly is “intention”. I try to remind my self of my intent or maybe it’s a goal everyday, so I stay on track.
I love that quote by David Campbell. I’m going to copy that out in big letters and post it somewhere.
Thanks.
I’m actually responding to your post from July 31, 2007. Is there a Market for Art Quilts? it has stayed in my mind since I read it. I came across a post today by Seth Godin at http://sethgodin.typepad.com/ called “Changing the Game” And I’m thinking there may be something to that for art quilts. Maybe art quilters, quilt artists, whatever we call ourselves, need to stop trying to fit into the already established art world and create our own.
Wow – speaking of discipline… your mention of “writing requirements” sure gave me a little jolt! Sometimes for me, the thought of going back to a corporate career is great for injecting more discipline into what I’m doing as an artist and how I’m going about it.
Hope you made good progress on those requirements…
This is key for me. When I’m clear on what I’m doing, discipline is easy. When I’m treading new ground or looking to spread my wings, all discipline goes out the window. Fear of the unknown I guess. Thanks for the Campbell quote Lisa. Hope you got your writing done!
Also, I love quotes; some that could pertain to this:
“There is usually an inverse proportion between how much something is on your mind and how much it’s getting done.” –David Allen, author Getting Things Done
“To achieve great things, two things are needed: a plan, and not quite enough time.” — Leonard Bernstein, conductor
“Concentrate all your thoughts on the task at hand. The sun’s rays do not burn until brought to a focus.”– Alexander Graham Bell, Inventor
Hi Lisa,
This is a great set of quotes … and I love reading about how you function. So helpful!! Thank you!
~ Diane Clancy
http://www.dianeclancy.com/blog
Thanks for the additional quotes Tracy – I love them.
David – the corporate world is definitely something I would love to leave also but right now I’m enjoying it. New challenges with my new position, learning to get along with a wide range of personalities. Good stuff. But hopefully not forever!
Cynthia – definitely – intention is very important and the think I try to think about each morning – what is my intention for the day.
Angela & Diane – thanks for the comment.
Virginia – interesting thing to think about. I might have to write a post about this. I’m not sure I have an answer but rethinking what the market for textiles might be worth pursuing.