Self-discipline is essential to experience growth and self-improvement. While training for a marathon, for instance, you need to stick with a consistent running program — even if that means waking up before sunrise or squeezing miles in at lunchtime. To build up to 200-lb. deadlift, you need to lift multiple times a week and prioritize certain nutrients in your diet, even at brunch with friends.
But without self-compassion, you may not get very far in your journey; you may end up ignoring internal cues to take a rest day or beating yourself up when you’re not performing at your peak, both of which can impact your performance and well-being in the long run.
So, how do you strike a healthy balance between the two? Here’s what experts want you to know.