Scout Leadership Course Handout

Session area

Self Discipline

Outline of the session

Self Discipline involves a complicated mix of self control, self confidence and managing your own actions and behaviour. All Scouts are expected to demonstrate great self discipline in order to do their best. This self discipline is learnt or gained from experience and by watching others so those in leadership or role model positions must set the standard for others to follow.

Session Notes

What is Self Discipline?

Self-discipline is self-control and self-restraint.
Self-discipline is self-reliance and independence.
Leaders who exercise self-discipline:
- Complete the task
- Stay on task
- Wait to be called on
- Work toward personal and community goals
- Try again and again
- Ignore peer pressure
- Choose productive rather than destructive activities
- Control their tempers

Self Discipline and the Scout Law

How many of the Scout Laws require Self Discipline?:
- A Scout is trustworthy
- A Scout is loyal
- A Scout is helpful
- A Scout is friendly
- A Scout is cheerful
- A Scout is considerate
- A Scout is thrifty
- A Scout is courageous
- A Scout is respectful
- A Scout cares for the environment

Eight ways to strengthen your self-discipline

1. Decide that you really want to be someone who is self-disciplined. Your desire will motivate you to make good choices.
2. Make a personal commitment to develop and strengthen these things. List what you need to do.
3. Learn the rules that determine what you can and cannot do.
4. Be accountable. Accept responsibility for your own behavior. Don't blame others for your actions and decisions.
5. Practice. Self-discipline is something you can teach yourself. For example, set aside time to read more or to clean up.
6. Do activities that enhance your self-discipline like martial arts, walking, rock-climbing, practicing a musical instrument.
7. Remove harmful habits. For example, if you spend several hours each week playing violent video games or watching tv programs, make a conscious decision to spend your time in healthier, more productive ways.
8. Start a self-discipline group to plan and carry out activities.