“Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.”

That is a quote by Jim Rohn which I appreciate especially today.

I have a goal of doing the Reeds Lake Triathlon (see last post). Today took enormous amounts of discipline to get up at 6:15am and head to Calvin's pool. It took maybe even more discipline this evening to put on the running shoes and hit the pavement.

I suck at discipline, but I did it. I hope that each time I accomplish a goal, the next time will be a bit easier.

I desire with all my heart to lead a very structured life, but often lack the... well, discipline to be disciplined.

I do sense a domino effect whenever one area of my life becomes more structured. Typically when I start to exercise, my eating habits improve. That usually helps my bedtime routine and amount of sleep I get. That often helps me use my time more effectively, etc. Discipline often leads to a simpler, more content life for me.

I've decided that you can get a glimpse into my mind and heart by looking in two places:
1. My kitchen.
2. My car.

If they are clean, picked up and orderly, you can bet my mind is settled and calm and I am, for the most part, on top of things in life; I am disciplined. If they are in a state of disarray, however, things aren't good. That's often a sign of chaos and stress for me.

I'm not quite sure which leads to what. Those living in my house can tell you that a dirty kitchen can quickly lead to me being stressed & upset. Hmm. The age old chicken/egg question.

So, if you ever want to get a glimpse into the life of Gretchen, stop by my kitchen or take a cruise in the mini-van & you'll get a pretty accurate look into my current mental and emotional state. Hopefully this triathlon training will help me, and in turn, my family, lead a more simple & content life.

High hopes for a simple triathlon, huh?