Lesson 22: DISCIPLINE
- Devaki R Menon
- Aug 7
- 2 min read
The third principle of the 14 Principles of Management is about obedience. It is often reflected in the core values of a Mission and Vision in the form of good conduct and respectful interactions. This is essential in any organization for its smooth functioning.
In the Ramayana, the Bala Kandam details how Sri Rama and his brothers were trained during their childhood and adolescent years. This rigorous training helped them face and overcome challenging situations—especially Sri Rama, who had to cope with the difficulties of exile, forest life, and war.
Discipline comes with practice, and the earlier it is introduced to a child, the more naturally it is imbibed.
Sri Rama and his brothers led a strictly disciplined life during their childhood days in Ayodhya. They were required to:
Wake up early
Take bath
Seek blessings from parents daily
Practice regularly what they were learning
Respect elders and serve their gurus
Follow a systematic lifestyle, including healthy food habits
They also practiced soft skills, learned how to treat people in society, underwent behaviour modification training, and adapted to various situations.
Through continuous practice, an individual learns to live a disciplined life. Discipline influences one’s career and the way an organization is managed. An entrepreneur who is well-disciplined is more likely to achieve their objectives compared to someone who neglects it.
Management must establish disciplinary measures to guide employee behavior in the form of policies and guidelines, which in turn reflect the organization’s culture.
Sri Rama is a symbol of victory, and his winning edge was shaped by the discipline instilled in him from childhood.
Discipline is the foundation of leadership and success. Just as Sri Rama's strength came from early training and consistent values, organizations thrive when discipline is at the core of their culture.
Comments