Motivation vs. Discipline - How to Keep Going When It Gets Hard

We’ve all been there - excited to start something new, full of motivation, only to watch it fade after a few days or weeks. So what really keeps us moving toward our goals when that initial spark dies out?

In this episode of The Full Circle Podcast, Gillian explores the powerful balance between motivation and discipline, and why understanding the difference between the two is essential for long-term transformation. You’ll learn how to stay committed even when life gets messy, energy runs low, or progress feels slow.

From building habits that stick to creating a supportive environment and reshaping your self-talk, this episode is a toolkit for staying consistent with your personal growth - even when it gets hard.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why motivation fades and what to replace it with
• How to connect your goals to a deeper sense of purpose
• The difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation (and why it matters)
• How to build discipline like a muscle, one small habit at a time
• Practical tools to stay committed even when you don’t “feel like it”
• How to use visualisation and accountability to reinforce action
• The truth about grit - and how to build it without burning out
• Why discipline isn’t harsh - it’s self-respect in action

Reflection Questions:

💭 What’s a small habit you can start today that aligns with your future self?

💭 When motivation disappears, what routines or mindsets can help you keep going?

💭 Is your self-talk helping or hindering your discipline?