Brainstorm

• Self-discipline is the act of exerting restraint and control over oneself. Help students learn about self-discipline by asking them to brainstorm situations that call for it. Prompts in the form of questions as to how students would act in certain situations will help them as they make their list. For instance, ask students what they would do if they were provoked into anger or how people maintain long-term relationships. Once a list is formed, lead a discussion as to how self-discipline enters into each situation.
  
  

Pastimes

• Certain pastimes build self-discipline. Group music or sports lessons require students to work as part of a group, follow directions and give up other activities in order to practice. They also teach students to think about a team as a whole, rather than just themselves. A part time job requires commitment and self-discipline to accomplish, even if it is just mowing a neighbor's lawn every week.
  
  

For the Future

• Self-discipline is required to meet long-term goals. Ask students to fill out a questionnaire that asks them about their goals in five years, 10 years or a certain time after high school graduation and what they think will need to happen in order for them to achieve those goals. For instance, a student who wants to be a doctor should know that advanced math classes in high school and many years of post-secondary education all require self-discipline. Have them think about what they might have to give up to fulfill those requirements.
  
  

Self-discipline in History

• Your students can learn about self-discipline from historical figures who displayed the characteristic. Divide your students into groups and have them choose someone from history whom they admire for his ability to persevere through self-discipline. After researching their historical figure, have each group present the information to the class and discuss how self-discipline worked for them. For instance, if a group chooses Thomas Edison, they might tell their classmates how Edison failed many times but did not give up in his pursuit of inventing the light bulb.