Discipline is one of the most defining traits that make a person stand out from the crowd.

It’s not about being a stickler for rules or being too rigid, but rather about cultivating self-control, persistence, and a sense of purpose.

It’s about setting goals and relentlessly pursuing them, despite the hurdles and setbacks that may come your way.

So, how do you know if you’re more disciplined than the average person?

Well, psychology has some interesting insights on this matter!

Let’s dive in and explore the 8 telltale signs that you’re rocking a higher level of discipline than most. 

1. You’re a Goal-Setting Guru

The first sign that you’re more disciplined than the average person lies in your relationship with goals.

According to Dr. Edwin Locke, co-developer of Goal-Setting Theory, setting goals is linked with higher motivation, self-esteem and autonomy. People who are goal-driven feel more control over their lives and are better at managing time and priorities

It’s not just about setting any goal, but rather setting SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This means the goals are clear, they can be tracked, they are realistic, they align with your life’s direction, and they have a specific timeline for completion.

Disciplined individuals understand that goal-setting is a dynamic process. They review their goals regularly, adjust them as necessary, and maintain a positive attitude even when things don’t go as planned. 

2. You Embrace Daily Routines

If there’s one thing disciplined people swear by, it’s the power of routines.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: routines can sound boring, mundane, and robotic. I used to think so too, till I realized that routines are not about suppressing spontaneity or creativity.

Instead, they provide a structure to our day, helping us manage our time more effectively and reduce decision fatigue.

According to Dr. Roy Baumeister, from his book Willpower: Rediscovering the Greatest Human Strength, routines can help conserve self-control strength by reducing the number of decisions we have to make each day, which reduces decision fatigue and helps us focus on more important tasks.

It doesn’t mean every minute is planned out, but they have certain non-negotiable activities that they do daily—be it exercise, meditation, reading, or even something as simple as making their bed in the morning. These routines provide a sense of control and predictability, which aids in reducing stress and enhancing productivity.

3. You’re Not Afraid of Delayed Gratification

Alright, let’s get real for a moment. We live in an instant gratification society. We want everything here and now. Fast food, next-day delivery, binge-watching entire seasons in a day—you name it. But disciplined people? They dance to a different beat. They understand the concept of delayed gratification, and they’re not afraid to embrace it.

Delayed gratification, as psychology explains, is the ability to resist the temptation for an immediate reward and wait for a later, often greater, reward.

Dr. Walter Mischel, from his studies on delayed gratification, found that the ability to delay gratification is critical for success in life.

Children who were able to wait for a larger reward in the Marshmallow Test tended to have better life outcomes, including higher academic achievement and better emotional regulation

In the end, it’s about understanding that the best things in life often require time and patience. It’s about trading immediate pleasure for long-term satisfaction.

Disciplined individuals might choose to eat a healthy meal now for the reward of better health in the future. They might opt to save money today for the reward of financial security down the line. They might decide to invest time into learning a new skill today for the reward of career advancement tomorrow.

4. You Know When to Break the Rules

Wait, what? Isn’t discipline all about following rules? Well, here’s where it gets interesting. Disciplined people understand that rules are important, but they also recognize that not all rules are sacrosanct. They know when to follow the rules, and more importantly, when to break them.

Psychology suggests that disciplined individuals have an innate ability to assess situations critically.

They don’t blindly adhere to rules if they don’t serve a purpose or add value. They are not afraid to challenge the status quo if it means achieving a better outcome.

For instance, you might have a rule about not working on weekends. But if you have a critical project deadline coming up, you might choose to break this rule and put in some extra hours.

It doesn’t mean you’re undisciplined; on the contrary, it shows you’re disciplined enough to make adjustments for the greater good.

5. You Value Consistency Over Perfection

Perfection is a tricky concept. While striving for excellence is commendable, obsessing over perfection can lead to unnecessary stress and burnout. And here’s a little secret I’ve learned over the years—disciplined people know this. They understand that it’s not about perfect execution every time, but rather about showing up consistently.

Dr. Angela Duckworth, from her book Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, says that “Consistency of effort over the long run is everything. When it comes to achieving long-term goals, it’s not about perfection, but about showing up regularly and putting in the work.”

Disciplined individuals apply this principle in all areas of life—be it work, health, relationships, or personal growth. They understand that progress is often slow and gradual, and they’re okay with that. They focus on being 1% better each day rather than striving for 100% perfection all at once.

6. You Own Up to Your Mistakes

Let’s face it, nobody likes to admit they’re wrong. It’s uncomfortable, it’s humbling, and sometimes, it’s downright painful. But here’s the brutal truth: disciplined people are not afraid to admit their mistakes. They don’t run from them, they don’t hide them, and they certainly don’t blame others for them.

Psychology reinforces that disciplined individuals understand the value of owning up to their errors. They know that mistakes are not signs of weakness but opportunities for growth. They learn from their missteps and use them as stepping stones towards improvement.

If you’re someone who can swallow your pride, admit your mistakes, and then work on rectifying them—well, that’s a level of discipline that’s far above average. It’s hard, no doubt about it. But as disciplined folks know, growth often comes from discomfort. 

7. You Have a High Level of Self-Control

 

Psychology has long established a strong link between discipline and self-control.

Dr. Kelly McGonigal, from her book The Willpower Instinct, explains that self-control is the ability to align your behavior with your long-term goals, even in the face of temptations. It’s about making decisions that support your future self.

Disciplined people can resist impulses, temptations, and distractions that steer them away from their goals. They are able to make informed decisions rather than react on impulse.

For instance, they might choose to skip an impromptu party because they have a pressing deadline the next day. Or they might resist the temptation to splurge on an expensive item because they’re saving up for something more important. This doesn’t mean they never have fun or splurge, but they do so intentionally and not at the cost of their priorities.

8. You Practice Self-Care Regularly

It might sound counterintuitive, but self-care is a sign of a disciplined person. I used to think that being disciplined meant constantly pushing myself to the limit, always hustling, and burning the candle at both ends. But over time, I’ve learned that’s not the case.

Disciplined people understand the importance of taking care of their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. They know that in order to perform at their best and stay focused on their goals, they need to take time to recharge and rejuvenate.

Psychology suggests that regular self-care practices—like getting sufficient sleep, eating healthily, exercising regularly, taking breaks, engaging in hobbies, or even just spending quiet time alone—can enhance our productivity, creativity, and overall wellbeing.

If you’re someone who prioritizes self-care—not as an indulgence but as a necessary part of your routine—you’re showing an admirable level of discipline. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential. And disciplined folks know this all too well!