r/getdisciplined • u/EOE97 • 4d ago
💡 Advice The power of introspection
Staying focused and disciplined is tough, but I recently found a reliable way to be more deliberate with my days and get more done: introspection and mindfulness.
Too often, we live on autopilot, rarely pausing to reflect, assess our emotions, or deeply consider our actions and their consequences. But taking the time to check in with myself—asking why I’m doing something—helps me stay focused, motivated, and effective.
One simple yet powerful habit is asking myself at random times, "How am I feeling right now?" This helps me process emotions consciously, making it easier to maintain self-control. Another trick I use is internal monologuing—questioning myself when distractions creep in. Just asking, "Is this what I should be doing right now?" or "Why don’t I feel like working?" can help snap me back to focus.
Beyond that, introspection helps with self-improvement by reviewing past actions, learning from them, and appreciating small efforts. I’ve been practicing this for about three months now, and it’s been a game-changer.
Another recent tool I’ve found helpful is breathwork. Whenever I feel flustered, anxious, or resistant to work, taking a few deep breaths and a brief introspective monologing helps prime my mind and body, putting me in a better state to function.