This quote reminds us that while motivation can be a good starting point, it doesn’t last forever. Some days, we feel inspired to do our best work, but other days we feel lazy or tired. That’s normal. Relying only on motivation is like waiting for the perfect weather to go outside — you might be waiting a long time. Discipline, on the other hand, helps us stick to a routine even when we don’t feel like it. But discipline, too, can wear down if we don’t have a strong system to support it.

Take the example of someone who wants to get fit. In the beginning, they’re full of motivation. They go to the gym every day, eat healthy, and feel great. But after a few weeks, that excitement fades. If they haven’t built a habit — like going to the gym at the same time daily or prepping meals in advance — they might quit. Motivation got them started, but only their habits will keep them going long term.

That’s why building simple, repeatable habits is so important. When something becomes part of your daily life, like brushing your teeth, it doesn’t matter how you feel — you just do it. Mood doesn’t decide your actions. Your routine does. And that’s how real progress happens.