...of Raising Godly Children

CTC Readers' Poll:
Effective Self-Discipline 

 In the March 1, 2006 issue of the newsletter, we asked this question:

"How have you personally learned to be more self-disciplined? Do you have any advice for someone who might be struggling in this area?"

"One of the ways I've always had of getting myself to do what I don't want to do (Isn't that kind of the definition of 'self-discipline' anyway?!) is to make up inspiring little quotes to repeat to myself when I don't want to do something. For example, 'worst first' always reminds me that if I do the worst job first, it's done and I can go on to something more enjoyable. My saying to get myself motivated into a more disciplined life lately has been to say, 'The only thing more difficult than a disciplined life is an undisciplined one.' Isn't this soooo true?!  It is so hard to get up at the crack of dawn and make my bed and get my kids to do what they need to do and to exercise.  But the benefits are worth it.  If I think of not being disciplined in these or any other areas, the benefits always outweigh the pain. My life is rough and tough -- but I would be fatter, my kids would be unhappier in the long run, and my house a complete pig sty if I were not disciplined. So, the whole point is to get smart and to choose a disciplined life over a life that is even more difficult and disappointing." ~ Rebecca
 

"I have helped myself become more self-disciplined with money by doing a few things. The first one is to pay myself in enough cash to get through a payday. That is for groceries and a few incidentals. My husband and I have divided up the bills. I contribute an amount every payday that enables him to pay household expenses. This situation could be reversed if the wife handles that part of the bill-paying.  After that the rest of my paycheck goes into a joint savings account. I do not use credit cards for anything except an emergency. I carry only one credit card. I schedule one day per week to 'shop' or otherwise venture into stores, malls etc.  Most of the time I 'window shop' but I enjoy having a cup of coffee and relaxing from work.  I plan my dinner menus for about two weeks in advance.  I try to plan them around what I already have in my kitchen.  I try to be flexible and substitute some ingredients whenever I can.  I keep a list of favorite recipes which makes this much easier and less time-consuming.  I have also learned to cook for my freezer every weekend. I might make a bread, brown some beef...anything that will help me save time during the week. I probably spend about one hour doing this and it really makes a difference in meal-planning.  This past fall I blanched vegetables I got from local farms and froze them for winter. What a difference! I did not have to buy vegetables for about two months! Saving nickels and dimes really adds up!" ~ Janice

Editor's Note: Thanks to these two readers for taking the time to write.

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