Plato said that "the first and best victory is to conquer the self".
Learning to lead yourself and others effectively is a matter of discipline and self-control. In life, few things are achieved without effort, especially the things that matter most. Do you want to be happy, to experience calm, peace of mind and contentment?
Then pay attention to this: happiness, success and fulfilment come from concentration and perseverance. The prospect of making a quick buck, of living with no strings and no responsibilities, of untidy routines, of "when I want and what I want", of moving without judgement and abusing the throwaway mantra, may seem seductive; but in the long run, it only brings more and more dissatisfaction.
Studies show that people with self-discipline are happier. Why? Because with discipline and self-control we achieve the goals that really matter to us. Self-discipline is the bridge between defined goals and achieved goals.
The concept of "Tapas" (the fire of practice in yoga) is fundamental to understanding the process of personal and spiritual transformation. This term, derived from the Sanskrit root "Tapa", meaning to burn, heat or consume by fire, is commonly translated as "self-control" or "discipline".
When the great masters mention "Tapas" in their texts, they are conveying to the practitioner the need to kindle and feed an inner fire that cleanses the mind of confusion, obsessions, addictions, sadness and laziness.
"Tapas" is the fire of physical, verbal and mental discipline.
Physical discipline implies non-violence, integrity, being satisfied with what you have, making proper use of vital energy and occupying the mind with transcendent aspects. Not everything in life is gross and material.
Verbal discipline includes speaking the truth, avoiding hurtful words and always having a mental discourse based on values that are universal, positive and beneficial to all beings.
Mental discipline refers to aspiring to serenity and goodness, observing silence, disciplining oneself and maintaining pure intentions.
Self-control goes beyond the discipline of the body; it is a constant practice that requires continuous physical and intellectual effort. It is like the fire that cooks food to make it edible or hardens clay to form a solid vessel. Self-discipline transforms people, preparing us physically and mentally for personal evolution.
Discipline and self-control are the flames that fan this inner fire. By practising "Tapas", we learn to master our impulses and desires, cultivating the willpower and endurance necessary to face life's challenges with balance and serenity. This process of self-discipline strengthens character, purifies the mind and opens the way to deep and lasting transformation.
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