Technical Discipline

Discipline is neither a technique nor a process. Technique describes how to execute an activity given a certain set of constraints (such as the available tools). For example, how to cut tomatoes using a chef's knife. Process defines a plan on how and when things are going to get executed, it might or might not give away the techniques that are expected to be employed. For example, a recipe on how to make pizza might tell you the ingredients and the order in which they should be mixed and cooked but it might not specify the technique on how to knead the dough. While process and technique can often be enforced, discipline needs to be nurtured from within us. It's possible to assess that a meal tastes delicious but it's [the cook's] discipline that ensures vegetables were properly cleaned before they were cooked. The only way to really internalize discipline is by doing it. Practice it over and over until it's naturally part of your routine.