Ever wonder how some people seem to have it all together, effortlessly juggling work, hobbies, fitness, and a social life? It’s not magic, it’s discipline! But discipline isn’t about being a robot or depriving yourself of fun — it’s about making conscious choices and creating habits that support your goals.
1. They don’t hit the snooze button repeatedly.
We’ve all been there, right? That alarm goes off, and the snooze button looks so tempting, but disciplined people know that those extra few minutes of sleep aren’t actually restful. In fact, they disrupt your sleep cycle and leave you feeling groggy, New Scientist reveals. Disciplined people set their alarm for a time they can realistically wake up and stick to it. They might even have a morning routine that helps them get energised and ready to tackle the day.
2. They don’t check their phone first thing in the morning.
Starting your day by scrolling through social media or checking emails can set you up for distraction and stress. Disciplined people prioritise their own well-being and start their day with activities that nourish their minds and bodies, like meditation, exercise, or journaling. They set boundaries around their phone usage and create dedicated times to check messages and notifications, rather than letting their phone control their day.
3. They don’t skip meals or eat junk food regularly.
Source: Unsplash Food is fuel, and disciplined people understand the importance of feeding their bodies with healthy, whole foods. They don’t skip meals, even when they’re busy, and they avoid relying on processed foods and sugary snacks for energy. They prioritise balanced meals and snacks that provide sustained energy and support their overall health and well-being. That’s not to say they don’t grab a cheeky Nando’s occasionally, but they definitely don’t make it a habit.
4. They don’t procrastinate.
Source: Unsplash Procrastination is the enemy of discipline. It’s that tempting urge to put off tasks until the last minute, leading to stress, overwhelm, and rushed work. Disciplined people break down large tasks into smaller steps and tackle them one at a time. They set deadlines, prioritise their work, and avoid unnecessary distractions. They know that taking consistent action, even in small increments, is the key to achieving their goals.
5. They don’t let their emotions control their actions.
Everyone has feelings, but disciplined people don’t let their emotions dictate their behaviour. They might feel angry, sad, or frustrated, but they don’t lash out, make impulsive decisions, or become self-destructive. They take a step back, acknowledge their emotions, and only then choose how to respond in a way that aligns with their values and goals.
6. They don’t compare themselves to anyone else.
Source: Unsplash Comparison is the thief of joy, as they say. Disciplined people focus on their own journey, their own progress, and their own unique strengths and weaknesses. They don’t waste their time and energy comparing themselves to anyone else, or trying to keep up with the Joneses. They understand that everyone has their own path, and they’re committed to making the most of their own.
7. They don’t say yes to everything.
Source: Unsplash It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure to please other people and say yes to every request or invitation. That being said, disciplined people know their limits and aren’t afraid to say no when necessary. They prioritise their time and energy, focusing on what’s truly important to them. They understand that saying no to some things allows them to say yes to the things that truly matter.
8. They don’t give up easily.
Source: Unsplash Obstacles and setbacks are inevitable, but disciplined people don’t let them derail their progress. They see challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, and they persevere even when things get tough. They have a strong sense of determination and resilience, and they refuse to let failures define them. They pick themselves up, dust themselves off, and keep moving forward, one step at a time.
9. They don’t dwell on the past.
Source: Unsplash We all have regrets or moments we wish we could redo, but disciplined people don’t let those past events control their present or future. They acknowledge their mistakes, learn from them, and then move on. They understand that the past is just that – the past – and that focusing on it won’t change anything. Instead, they concentrate their energy on creating a better future by making positive choices in the present.
10. They don’t get easily distracted.
Distractions are everywhere these days – social media notifications, emails, text messages, you name it. Disciplined people are masters at tuning out these distractions and staying focused on the task at hand. They might use tools like website blockers, noise-canceling headphones, or even just turn off their phone to create a distraction-free environment. They know that staying focused is crucial for productivity and achieving their goals.
11. They don’t let fear dictate their choices.
Fear can hold us back from taking risks, trying new things, and pursuing our dreams, but disciplined people don’t let fear control their lives. They acknowledge their fears, but they don’t let them dictate their decisions. They push themselves out of their comfort zones, embrace challenges, and take calculated risks. They understand that fear is a natural part of the human experience, but it doesn’t have to be a barrier to success.
12. They don’t make excuses.
Disciplined people take ownership of their actions and outcomes. They don’t blame other people or outside situations, or make excuses for their shortcomings. If they fail, they analyse what went wrong, learn from their mistakes, and try again. They understand that excuses are just a way of avoiding responsibility, and that taking ownership is the first step towards growth and improvement.
13. They don’t waste time on things that don’t matter.
Time is a precious resource, and disciplined people use it wisely. They prioritise their activities, focusing on what’s truly important and meaningful to them. They don’t waste time on mindless scrolling through social media, binge-watching TV shows, or engaging in other time-wasting activities. They understand that every minute counts, and they strive to make the most of their time.
14. They don’t let others define their worth.
Disciplined people have a strong sense of self-worth that doesn’t depend on external validation. They don’t need the approval of others to feel good about themselves. They know their own value, and they don’t let negative opinions or criticisms derail their confidence. They surround themselves with positive and supportive people who lift them up and encourage them to be their best selves.
15. They don’t neglect their relationships.
While they prioritise their own goals and aspirations, they understand that relationships are important for their overall well-being. They make time for their loved ones, nurture their friendships, and invest in their romantic partnerships. They know that strong relationships provide support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging, all of which are essential for a happy and fulfilling life.
16. They don’t lose sight of their values.
Source: Unsplash In the pursuit of success and achievement, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. But disciplined people never compromise their values for the sake of short-term gains. They stay true to their principles, even when faced with temptation or pressure. They know that their values are what define them as people, and that living in alignment with those values is essential for long-term happiness and fulfilment.
