OCCUPATIONAL WELLNESS: Building Self-Discipline and Determination to Succeed Blog
Intro
Do you have a large to-do list, but struggle to complete anything on it? What does it take to build your self-discipline and determination? Join us as we discuss these things with Lady Eli Essegbey.
Guest Bio
Lady Eli Essegbey is the founder and owner of Winning Women’s World and Eliba Collections LLC.
Q: How did you learn to be self-determined and disciplined?
For some people, I think it comes naturally. They were born with it and it is a blessing for them. Other people have to set aside time to learn it. Personally, I don’t think I was born with it, but there have been experiences in my past that have built this skill in me.
Q: At what point did you realize that you were growing in this area?
As a person, I have learned that I loved the arts, specifically performing arts. I have been in different choirs and dance groups, and during rehearsals, you have to work to perfect the piece you are working on. That process really stood out to me the longer I was in those groups. Many of those rehearsals, especially late-night ones, sometimes felt stressful. But looking back, it is those events that grew my character the most.
Q: How do you plan out your goals?
Now, I don’t do plans as much as I used to. I feel like, after some time, it becomes a part of you. My typical day now varies, since I am a mother and wife. Your kids have a lot of control over your life. I don’t put a lot of pressure on myself, because if I want to get something done, I will set aside time to do it.
A friend gave me some advice for working at home. “If you want to be productive, dress as though you were going to the office.” That does something in your mind, and give your body a signal that you are taking your work seriously. Having the mindset of, “This work is serious,” will greatly improve your productivity. Accomplish one thing a day and the tasks will be completed in time.
Q: Do you have any tips or recommendations on how to get yourself motivated?
Having a vision on what you want to accomplish. I remember hearing a sermon where the preacher said, “Close your eyes and imagine where you want be.” As I go through life, I recall that picture to motivate myself. You can’t build anything if you cannot see it. If you want to accomplish something, have a vision of where you want to go.
The second thing I would say is to have motivation or inspiration. When I was in choir, there were always students who worked very hard. I was motivated to work hard and not fall behind them. They were also inspiring, showing me what I could accomplish if I worked hard.
Q: How do you balance your work and your home life?
Do not over-stress about things. Your kids will make messes. Many people want everything to work just the way they want it, but that will not happen in our world. Take things one step at a time and focus on what is front of you at the moment. Also, having a support system. You cannot thrive in life by yourself. Have people you can rely on for when things get chaotic.
Q: What do you do to structure your day?
I start each day by writing down what I need to do for the day. There are many things you have to accomplish before the day is done, and if you don’t write them down then you will forget many of them. Some people structure their lists by importance and others organize by time and schedules. But everyone should write down what you need to do in the next 24 hours. If you don’t finish everything, do not beat yourself up about it. Be flexible with your structure.
Summary
Many people struggle with accomplishing tasks and feeling unproductive and unfulfilled. Every day is a new day. Don’t tell yourself that you never get anything done, so why bother trying. God gave everybody gifts and talents, so let yourself fail in order to grow. If you put in the effort, you will grow in time.
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