This saying seems to be the easiest way to explain why we can't do what we want. It sounds reasonable, because discipline is the important factor determining a person's success. However, if you think deeper, is the problem really lack of discipline?
If the real problem is in "will", why can a person sometimes keep a very good habit for a while, but give up after only a few days? Why can a person work focused when in the office, but become negligent when at home? Why can a person eat scientifically when on a business trip, but cannot control themselves when living with family? We easily blame our own lack of discipline and forget that the surrounding environment can be the decisive factor in behavioral change.
Humans are not born with the ability to pursue long-term ideals. Our brains are designed to save energy, choose familiar and easy-to-do actions. At the end of the day, when the body is tired, the brain does not ask if you want to live a worthwhile life. It only asks a simple question: "What is easy to do here?" When the phone is right next to the pillow, entertainment applications are placed right on the main screen, and books are placed on high shelves, sneakers are in the trunk, the office is messy... At this point, your choice does not reflect a strong will, but reflects a context with too many temptations.
A clear example is that when a person lives disciplined in a quiet city, they tend to maintain habits such as morning exercise, healthy eating and focused work. However, when they move to live in a noisy, crowded environment with many distractions, these habits can be broken in just a short time. Not because they are weaker, but because they have lived in a different system, with different inclinations.
We often find ways to correct ourselves when facing failure, but in fact, environmental correction can be more effective. Small changes in the living environment can help us maintain habits without constantly struggling with ourselves. A neat desk will help you focus better, instead of a desk full of chargers and unnecessary objects. A working corner without a bed will activate a more efficient working regime. A refrigerator with vegetables in the top compartment will help you eat healthier than a refrigerator with fresh water always in front. These changes do not require strong determination, but they are very effective because they do not require you to beat yourself every day.
When we feel that we lack discipline or cannot maintain good habits, the right question is not "How to be more disciplined?" but "What kind of system am I living in?" The environment around us can strongly affect our behavior and habits. Changing the environment, even small changes, can make a big difference in life and help us maintain good habits without constantly struggling with ourselves.
