You Don't Have to Like It, You Just Have to Do It

While our monthly topic of discussion in our child classes was recently discipline, I thought that I would share a little technique that I have been using for many years now, which does wonders to inspire self-discipline. I discovered it back in the late 90s upon reading a great book entitled "Rogue Warrior." The book is about a Vietnam War Veteran Navy Seal named Richard Marcinko, in which he shares many of his experiences during the war.

In the book, Marcinko explains that a soldier has many difficult tasks to complete, many of which are quite unpleasant. However, these assignments must be executed in order to complete the mission. There is no saying, "I just don't want to do this", or, "I can't do this." The job must get done! Marcinko had a little phrase he would use..."You don't have to like it, you just have to do it!"

It has been many years since I read "Rogue Warrior," and as you would expect, my memory has faded on most of the book's details. However, this little phrase is one very powerful detail that I remember very clearly. I have said this phrase to myself on many occasions and it has given me the drive to follow through and complete whatever it is that needed to be done. The best example I can give is the numerous times that I did not feel like working out.

There have been many times (and I'm sure many of you can relate to this) when it was time to work out and I found myself on the fence, considering blowing it off, and I would think of that phrase. It would get me up and to my workout every single time. There was even one incident that I remember when I was staying in a cheap motel and I needed to take a shower. Not surprisingly, the hot water was not working. I was ready to turn off the water when I said to myself, "you don't have to like it, you just have to do it!" Yes...I toughed it out and took the cold shower.

This powerful little phrase can apply to any aspect of life in which disipline is needed. I am thankful to Richard Marcinko for leaving such an impression on me with this simple little phrase. I hope you will give it a try!

Keep up the good fight!