The Discipline of Learning: Embracing Continuous Growth
The origin of the word “discipline” is from the Latin discere, meaning “to learn.” This connection highlights a profound truth about personal development—true discipline involves a commitment to continuous learning and growth. Jeremy Gleick, a junior at UCLA, exemplifies this through his remarkable daily routine.
Jeremy’s Journey to Becoming a Polymath
For the past two years, Jeremy has dedicated an hour each day to learn something new. His eclectic interests have led him from Ancient Greek lectures to blacksmithing classes, embodying the spirit of a modern-day polymath. His commitment demonstrates how discipline in learning isn’t just about adherence to study; it’s about passionately exploring the breadth of human knowledge.
Key Observations from Jeremy’s Learning Discipline
- Consistency is Key: Jeremy’s ability to stick to his learning routine, regardless of his location or schedule, shows the power of structured discipline. Whether he’s at a friend’s house or busy in the evening, he ensures that his hour of learning is sacred.
- Anticipating Future Growth: While Jeremy doesn’t have children yet, the prospect of viewing the world anew through a child’s eyes represents a future renaissance of learning. This potential adds another layer to his journey, emphasizing that learning and personal growth are continuous processes.
- Accessibility of Knowledge: In today’s digital age, the vast amount of information available online makes it easier than ever to explore new subjects and develop a wide range of skills.
What Is Your Discipline?
Inspired by Jeremy’s story, it’s worth asking yourself: What is your discipline? What are you committed to learning or mastering? Whether it’s carving out time each day to acquire new knowledge or pursuing a long-term educational goal, the essence of discipline is rooted in the desire to learn and grow.
If you’re looking to develop a similar discipline in your own life, or if you’re curious about how to foster this kind of commitment in others, consider joining one of our upcoming coach training sessions. Here, we delve deeper into the strategies that support lifelong learning and continuous personal development.


