Flexibility and discipline are the foundation of determination

A misunderstood virtue turns into a flaw.

Determination is the ability to stay focused on a goal and take the necessary steps to achieve it. However, to fully develop this ability, you need to train two complementary virtues: discipline and flexibility.

The problem arises when we misapply either of them:

• Misunderstood discipline turns into perseveration: insisting on the same thing even when it no longer works. For example, continuing with a training routine that is injuring you.
• Misunderstood flexibility turns into inconstancy: quitting or changing without a solid reason. For example, switching training routines before giving one a real chance.

That’s why:

• If you want to avoid perseveration, you need to develop your flexibility: change your approach to adapt to what actually works.
• And if you want to avoid inconstancy, you need to develop your discipline: do what’s necessary, even when it’s hard or you don’t feel like it.

In my case, I’ve just finished a sabbatical year. During this time, I made progress on (personal and professional) projects that required both discipline and flexibility.

A clear example of this was finishing the draft of a scientific publication with my colleagues in Belgium. At first, I thought all I needed was discipline: focus and hard work. However, my life situation had changed so much that this project — as it was originally designed — no longer made sense for me.

For two months, I fell into perseveration: I was determined to push through something that no longer fit my life. Eventually, I understood it was necessary to redefine the project so it could be a win-win for everyone (flexibility). Once we had a new plan, the challenge was twofold: to stick to it (discipline) and to adjust whenever unforeseen obstacles arose (flexibility).

That’s why it’s not enough to have discipline or flexibility: you need both in order to act with determination.

Determination is neither rigidity nor whim; it’s the balance between discipline and flexibility.

Best,
Fernando Nóbel

P.S.: What do you need to train more right now: discipline or flexibility? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments :-)