15/07/2024
โSelf-Improvement is Boringโ
I think thatโs the most used word that I always see from many content creators is "boring." To the point, I also adopted that kind of thought: โYeah, self-improvement is boring.โ But now, I want to change that stigma.
Why do people say it is boring? The first reason is that it's a journey full of routines, strict diets, workouts, journaling, reading, and many more disciplined activities. Second, people think that self-improvement is like a punishment instead of a reward. Lastly, influence plays a big role. People think that leg day is trash (because they saw it on the internet), but in reality, leg day is one of the key factors for establishing good strength and longevity in life. The same goes for the phrase โSelf-improvement is boring.โ We are just influenced by what we see and hear.
If it is not boring, then what is it? It is the true definition of freedom. Freedom? How? You are glued to your routine, following a certain diet, and waking up at the same time every day.
Ryan Holiday explains that discipline is the cornerstone of freedom (from the book Discipline is Destiny). By mastering self-discipline, you gain control over your impulses, emotions, and actions. This control allows you to make better choices and avoid being a slave to your desires and external circumstances. When you are disciplined, you are not at the mercy of every whim or distraction; you can focus on what truly matters and pursue your goals with clarity and intentionally.
From a Stoic perspective, freedom comes from within. Like what Epictetus said "No man is free who is not master of himself." he is reminding us that true freedom comes from within, through self-mastery and control. Marcus Aurelius put it this way he said that โStop allowing your mind to be a slave, to be je**ed about by selfish impulses, to kick against fate and the present, and to mistrust the future.โ by pursuing a routine and discipline you're allowing yourself to be free from unnecessary worries and distractions, allowing us to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Self-improvement, then, is not about conforming to a monotonous routine but about cultivating the inner strength and resilience to live life on your terms. Itโs about setting yourself up for success by establishing habits and practices that support your growth and well-being.
Look at it this way if you don't have a routine, you are a slave of the routine that society and others will give to you. You will have this constant anxiety about the future and it can cause increased stress, as well as overwhelming feelings, lack of concentration, and focus. A lack of structure and routine can exacerbate feelings of distress and make you pay more attention to the source of your problems.
Additionally, when you embrace the so-called "boring" aspects of self-improvement, you start to see the beauty in the process. The consistency and dedication required to follow through with your commitments build character and resilience. You begin to appreciate the small wins and progress made over time, which leads to a deeper sense of satisfaction and fulfillment.
So, letโs change the narrative. Self-improvement is not boringโitโs empowering. Itโs about taking control of your life, breaking free from the chains of bad habits and external influences, and creating a life that aligns with your values and goals. As Ryan Holiday and the Stoics teach us, discipline is the path to true freedom and greatness.
Memento Mori.
