Discipline Poem

By Sue Ellson

POEM // Discipline

By Sue Ellson

Text, audio and description online at https://sueellson.com/blog/discipline-poem

I could do with some improvement
To keep my focus tight
I’m guessing discipline would be good
To keep my focus right

For if I have some goals
That I would like to achieve
I’ll need to change my habits
Into tasks I do complete

I can’t wait for motivation
Passion or desire
I must choose practices
That continue to inspire

I’ll be ready to push on
And overcome self-indulgence
Every repetition
Becomes my new forbearance

My chosen control a sign
Of the power within
Intrinsic rewards abound
Every time I begin

And if I sometimes falter
I’ll strive for one percent more
To truly be a hero
I’ll commit to my very core

Discipline is a master
That sees the bigger picture
And then I’ll get to choose
How to follow my own scripture

Discipline is a belief
That every task done in faith
Will ultimately lead
To an awesome fate

On Wednesday 11 February 2026, I attended a business workshop ‘Take charge of your business success’ at the City of Boroondara with Robert Bonifacio (from Robert Bonifacio Coaching).

Throughout the presentation, Robert mentioned several times that all of the suggestions were of no use to anyone without the discipline to carry them out.

Robert also shared this video

on Ten lessons from Navy Seal Training that Admiral McRaven shared in address to the Class of 2014 at The University of Texas at Austin.

Whilst most people remember this popular video as the ‘make your bed in the morning speech,’ I reflected on the tasks that I ‘know I could do but don’t always do’ because as an ordinary ‘civilian,’ I don’t need to abide by the rules of military life.

However, I can see the various analogies – very clearly. Here’s my summary of Admiral McRaven’s lessons.

Ten Lessons from Navy Seal Training

1. Make your bed every morning

Small, disciplined actions build momentum. Starting with a completed task sets the tone for the day.

2. Find someone to help you paddle

No one succeeds alone. Friends, colleagues, strangers and a leader can help you get to your destination.

3. Measure people by the size of their heart, not the size of their flippers

Nothing matters but your will to succeed.

4. Get over being a sugar cookie

Nothing will ever be perfect no matter how well you prepare or perform.

5. Don’t be afraid of the circuses

When you fail and fail often, it will be painful and discouraging, but you cannot be afraid of the extra work.

6. Sometimes you have to slide down the rope headfirst

Be prepared to take risks others haven’t taken before.

7. Don’t back down from the sharks

Whilst sharks may be present, be prepared to fight them if you want to complete the swim. Don’t back down.

8. Be your very best in the darkest moments

When things are at their worst, be calm and composed. Use your tactical power and inner strength.

9. Start singing when you’re up to your neck in mud

Sing with great enthusiasm, even if out of tune. The power of hope can change the world.

10. Don’t ever, ever ring the bell

It will not be easy, respect everyone, but if you take some risks, face the bullies, uplift the downtrodden, you can change the world.

I then reflected on the concept of discipline when I couldn’t sleep the following night and started writing this poem at 12:47am. It only took about 30 minutes because I had been sub consciously thinking about this topic for just over 24 hours.

I know I need more discipline in my life!

So I sincerely hope that I will keep these suggestions in focus (I already make my bed every morning) and put a little bit of this military practice into my everyday life, in my own way, so that I too can reap the benefits of discipline. With love, Sue Ellson 🙂

#discipline #SueEllson #SueEllsonPoem #poem #poetry

Photo was taken in the garden at Heronswood, 105 Latrobe Parade, Dromana VIC 3936 on 18 January 2026.