Discipline Makes the Difference: A Mentor’s Secrets to Success Revealed

Discipline is a key trait that separates those who achieve success from those who merely dream of it. In my journey of creating the documentary Discipline Makes the Difference: A Mentor’s Secrets to Success Revealed, I had the privilege of meeting Dameion "Lucky" Smith, a self-proclaimed "energy connoisseur." Dameion embodied the values I believe all community leaders should possess: empathy, discipline, and integrity. Intrigued by his ability to live out these traits, I approached him for an interview, envisioning it as a conversation between men-tee and mentor

Discipline was the guiding principle in Dameion's life, and it was clear from his upbringing in South Central Los Angeles. Growing up in a neighborhood deeply influenced by gang culture, where adversity is part of everyday life, Dameion had to develop resilience. His environment, often described as a concrete jungle, left little room for weakness. However, rather than fall victim to the temptations around him, Dameion found solace and focus in athletics. This was not just a pastime but a practice in discipline. 2006 his sophomore year At Susan Miller Dorsey High School, he tried out for the track and field team during a P.E. class, following a series of demanding jumping tests conducted by Coach Ralph Tiley. His success in this moment was the first of many that would result from his dedication and self-control. (I, too, performed those same tests in the very same gymnasium.) Discipline was the force that propelled Dameion through the challenges of high school and beyond. Coaches described him as hardworking, ambitious, and humble core traits that stem from his disciplined approach to life. One of his former coaches recalled how he never missed a practice, showing up with determination and consistency, day after day. In a place where it was easy to veer off course, Dameion stayed the path. He credits discipline with keeping him from getting caught up in neighborhood gangs, staying focused on his goals instead of distractions.

When I asked Dameion about where he applies his discipline in his life today, he shared that

it spans multiple professions. He is a coach, a host/MC, and a mentor to others. In each role, discipline plays a pivotal part. For example, when preparing to host an event, Dameion takes great care in mentally rehearsing his performance. He studies other successful performers, identifying traits he can adopt and honing his craft with intention. His discipline is evident in the way he meticulously prepares himself to ensure he is comfortable on stage. This dedication allows him to control his emotions, knowing that his energy directly impacts the audience’s experience.

On the day of an event, Dameion maintains a strict routine to get into the right mindset. He listens to reggae music to soothe his nerves and keep his emotions balanced, understanding that a host must master the fine line between excitement and anxiety. He refers to this balance as the "window of confidence," where discipline is the key to maintaining control. He described his role as managing this balance like a health bar in a game—every moment requiring focus to ensure he stays in the optimal zone. Watching him explain this, I could see how discipline had shaped him into the poised and charismatic leader he is today.

Discipline isn’t just a skill; it’s a way of life. For Dameion, it’s the foundation upon which his success is built. Whether he is coaching, mentoring, or standing on stage in front of a crowd, discipline is the force that drives him forward. As I sat across from him, I realized that this trait—above all others—was the key to his growth, and it’s what allows him to help others grow too. In him, I saw the embodiment of discipline: a leader who rose from the chaos of a concrete jungle to become a guide for others navigating their own paths.