[Smaointe]

There's an article that goes into motivation versus discipline [1] that holds a similar view to what you're saying - motivation is like waiting to get into Olympic form, whereas discipline is what gets you to Olympic form.

[1] http://www.wisdomination.com/screw-motivation-what-you-need-...

[anotheryou]

"In summary, motivation is trying to feel like doing stuff. Discipline is doing it even if you don’t feel like it.

You get to feel good afterwards."

not sure I want to feel good about my career/life afterwards...

I as allways we need the compromise. Disciplin where short-term affirmation just won't happen, but doing something you are motivated to do in general.