Discipline and focus are traits that are in very short supply in modern society. This is because there are so many alternative data streams, it is easy to lose focus and concentrate on what needs to get done. But there are still proven ways to increase focus and discipline over time which have been around for a long time due to their effectiveness.

1. Meditation

Meditation has been proven to increase concentration and focus over time, according to a large number of studies. It also has a wide number of associated medical benefits, such as an alleviation of depression and the lowering of blood pressure. It is one of the most direct ways to increase focus and discipline. Meditation is a lifelong practice and not a quick fix, which is a stark contrast to many of the current shortcuts that we can observe today. Other direct forms of meditation emphasize for long periods. In Tibetan spiritual systems, the practitioners were given yantras or symbols to concentrate on.

2. Rest and Relaxation

Everybody knows that relaxation is essential. It is also proven that willpower is a fixed resource that is at its highest point in the morning and lowest point in the evening. However many people fail to optimize their rest, which is also a way to optimize their discipline and focus. An example of this would be focusing on a good night’s sleep – this could entail maintaining a clean room free of technology and clutter, diffusing some essential oil in the bedroom, and eating some sleep-inducing food a few hours before bed. It is also good to restore willpower during the day at frequent intervals and to learn to completely switch off from work at the weekends.

3. Diet and Exercise

Diet and exercise are integral to how much focus and willpower we have. When people eat a healthy and balanced diet with appropriate exercise, they will have more focus and willpower about what they want to achieve. The biggest challenge in this regard is caffeine. It helps to get the work completed but is a bad move in the long run which leads to a lesser quality of life. If you must have a coffee, make sure it is high quality with little sugar and taken in the morning as opposed to the evening. Otherwise, it will disrupt sleep.