Commentary: The importance of self-discipline Published Dec. 1, 2011 By Master Sgt. Kendall Prude 374th Civil Engineer Squadron YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- "... Discipline weighs ounces while regret weighs tons." - Jim Rohn When we make decisions we must consider their impact, not only on ourselves but on our families, co-workers and the Yokota community. When we fail to exercise self-discipline we put ourselves in a position to carry the weight of regret for the rest of our lives. Choosing to act responsibly rarely adds to that weight. While we're often reminded of the need for self-discipline after hearing about DUIs, alcohol-related incidents or assaults, self-discipline should not only be practiced off-duty on a Friday night in Roppongi or Bar Row. It should also be practiced at work and home. The technician that skips a step in the technical orders risks damaging million-dollar equipment and the safety of our Airman. The spouse that leaves the stove unattended to run to the shoppette risks the safety of their neighbors. The valued Team Yokota member that gets behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or the wingman who stands by and watches, risks not only their life, but the lives of everyone on the road. Hoping things will not turn out badly does little to prepare one for when they do. The lifelong regret that can result from poor decisions, whether we hurt our careers, our loved ones or ourselves, can be avoided if the time is taken to weigh the consequences of our actions. As a close-knit community, everyone on Yokota can benefit from an overall increase in self-discipline, and it's imperative that we all consider the consequences of our actions at home, at work and in the community.