Craig Ballantyne: Systems Over Willpower, Focused Growth & The Dark Side of Discipline | Ep37

Craig Ballantyne is known as the "World’s Most Disciplined Man" and is the author of The Dark Side of Discipline, as well as The Perfect Day Formula. He was also the creator of the Turbulence Training fitness system and owns EarlyToRise.com.

In this episode of the Successful Spiritual Entrepreneur Podcast, Christian sits down with Craig Ballantyne—author of The Dark Side of Discipline and The Perfect Day Formula, and creator of the Effortless Discipline System.

Known as the “world’s most disciplined man,” Craig shares a surprising truth: discipline isn’t about willpower—it’s about systems. He unpacks why most people sabotage their purpose by doing too many “good” things and how to escape the burnout cycle by designing a life around what truly matters.

Craig breaks down his simple 3-part framework—Eliminate, Prepare, Connect—and explains how entrepreneurs can stop chasing validation, start saying no, and realign with the vision that called them to lead in the first place. You’ll also hear his take on clarity, the dangers of reactive productivity, and why “running your own race” is the most spiritual act of all.

Whether you’re early in your journey or entering a new season of leadership, this episode delivers grounded strategy, soul-level truth, and a practical path to discipline without destruction.

Connect with Craig Ballantyne:

Get the Book The Dark Side of Discipline on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CQB1FY7N

Visit Craig’s website: earlytorise.com

Follow on Instagram: @realcraigballantyne

Connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/craigballantyne

Core Themes

• What discipline really is—and what it’s not
• Craig’s 3-part Effortless Discipline System
• Why chasing “good” can sabotage your great work
• Creating a specific 3-year vision and reverse-engineering success
• How to stop relying on willpower and start building systems
• The power of saying no and setting boundaries
• Running your own race in a noisy, distracted world
• Personal advice for entrepreneurs at every stage of life

Connect with Christian

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YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@chrismauerer

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/chrismauerer

Business Inquiries:
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👉 Listen to all Successful Spiritualpreneur Podcast episodes here:
https://open.spotify.com/show/5ryYCcW1SltPKhi9RRdk01

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