Discipline Quote by Murakami Haruki
““I don’t think it’s merely willpower that makes you able to do something. The world isn’t that simple. To tell the truth, I don’t even think there’s that much correlation between my running every day and whether or not I have a strong will. I think I’ve been able to run for more than twenty years for a simple reason: It suits me. Or at least because I don’t find it all that painful. Human beings naturally continue doing things they like, and they don’t continue what they don’t like. Admittedly, something close to will does play a small part in that. But no matter how strong a will a person has, no matter how much he may hate to lose, if it’s an activity he doesn’t really care for, he won’t keep it up for long. Even if he did, it wouldn’t be good for him.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: “Running and Writing” with Murakami Haruki, 2015
Sustained habits arise from enjoyment and personal fit more than raw willpower; alignment with intrinsic interest drives long‑term commitment.
In simple terms: You keep doing things you enjoy, not because of will.
Key Takeaway
Choose activities that feel natural and enjoyable.
Themes
habit formation
motivation
intrinsic reward
willpower
Mood
reflective
encouraging
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- daily running
- creative writing
- learning a musical instrument
- long‑term fitness plans
Key Concepts
psychology
behavioral economics
self‑determination theory
Questions to Reflect On
- What activities in your life feel effortless?
- How can you redesign a disliked task to increase enjoyment?
A Different Perspective
Will alone cannot overcome aversion; without genuine interest, effort fades quickly.
