Yes, there are two kinds of pain. One is short-term, and the other can last much longer—perhaps even a lifetime. As leaders, we must choose between the pain of discipline and the pain of regret. Having lived long enough, I’ve experienced both.

As leaders, we are always on display. Any lack of discipline in certain areas will be noticed. The start of the year is a great time to reflect and assess:

  • Where in my daily routine do I need more discipline?
  • Is there something I am doing—or failing to do—that is hindering my ability to lead effectively?

Even more powerful is seeking feedback from key team members about potential blind spots. I love this quote by Leo Tolstoy:
“Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself.”

Growth is optional. Applying more discipline may be painful in the short term, but the alternative—regret—can be far worse. I may not know which areas of your life need more discipline, but you do. As leaders, we are aware of where we can improve; it just requires the short-term discomfort of discipline.

The pain of regret is different. It lingers, sometimes forever. Are you avoiding something that needs to be addressed? A difficult conversation? An important decision you keep postponing? Are you tolerating something you know you shouldn’t?

I’ll admit—I’ve been guilty of all the above. Each time, it was painful. The lessons were valuable, but the pain could have been avoided.

The choice is yours: the pain of discipline or the pain of regret. Which will you choose?