“Discipline must come through liberty. Here is a great principle which is difficult for followers of man-made disciplines to understand.”
— Maria Montessori
Simplified Meaning:
To become truly disciplined, people need to have freedom. This idea can be confusing for those who think strict rules alone cause discipline. Imagine a student learning to play the piano. If the teacher forces them to practice without allowing them space to explore and enjoy the music, the student might follow instructions but won't develop a deep love or genuine skill. Instead, if the student has the freedom to choose pieces they like and find their own practice rhythm, they become naturally disciplined because they feel motivated and engaged. This approach can be applied to many areas of life, such as work or personal habits. Rather than relying on strict, external rules, giving yourself some freedom can help you stay committed and disciplined in the long run.