I’ve had my share of moments where money seemed more like a frenemy than an ally.

Whether it was impulse-buying a dress I didn’t need or convincing myself that budgeting was a buzzkill, financial discipline hasn’t always been my strong suit.

But here’s the thing: we all have quirks when it comes to money.

Some of us overspend, some avoid looking at bank statements, and others simply never save for a rainy day.

The reasons behind these habits? Most of the time, poor financial decisions are driven by emotions, psychology, and sometimes, the stories we tell ourselves.

So, I started digging into what those habits say about us. Turns out, there are some clear signs that reveal when someone’s struggling with financial discipline.

Let’s take a closer look—you might even spot a little of yourself along the way.

1) Overspending

One of the most common behaviors found in people with little financial discipline is overspending.

And I’m not talking about buying luxury items or splurging on big vacations.

It’s often seen in day-to-day life, with small purchases that add up over time.

A coffee here, a new shirt there, takeout for dinner because cooking feels like too much effort – these seemingly innocuous decisions can quickly snowball into a significant financial burden.

Psychology suggests this behavior may stem from immediate gratification – the desire to experience pleasure or fulfillment without delay.

The instant happiness that comes from purchasing something new can be incredibly powerful, often overshadowing the long-term consequences of spending beyond one’s means.

However, acknowledging the issue is difficult, and it’s only the beginning. The real challenge lies in implementing changes to counteract this behavior.

2) Ignoring bills and debts

I’ll admit it – I’ve been guilty of this behavior myself.

There was a time when the sight of a bill or a credit card statement would fill me with dread, and I would often put off opening them.

The logic was simple yet flawed: “If I don’t see it, it doesn’t exist.”

Unfortunately, ignoring bills and debts doesn’t make them disappear. Instead, it only leads to late fees, higher interest charges, and a lower credit score.

Psychology suggests that this avoidance behavior is linked to the fear of confronting a negative reality. It’s easier to turn a blind eye than to face the music.

But trust me, from personal experience, facing your debts head-on is the only way to regain control of your financial situation.

3) Lack of savings

An alarming trend among people with poor money discipline is a lack of savings.

Despite the importance of having a financial safety net, many people live paycheck to paycheck, with no buffer in case of emergencies.

This behavior isn’t just about reckless spending; it’s also about neglecting the future. According to a study by Bankrate, nearly 25% of American adults have no emergency savings at all.

The psychology behind this behavior often involves a skewed perception of risk and reward.

People tend to overestimate the probability of positive events in the future and underestimate the likelihood of negative ones.

This optimism bias can lead to complacency when it comes to saving money, resulting in a precarious financial situation.

Cultivating an awareness of this bias and actively saving for unforeseen expenses is key to improving financial discipline.

4) Impulse buying

Impulse buying is a common behavior among those who struggle with financial discipline, often driven by emotions rather than necessity.

It’s a form of self-regulation, according to research, where buying on a whim can either be a way to chase pleasure or avoid feelings of inadequacy.

While the thrill of the purchase may feel rewarding at first, it’s also tied to negative emotions and low self-esteem, creating a frustrating cycle of overspending and regret.

External triggers like sales or promotions often amplify this behavior, tapping into fears of missing out and pushing people toward unplanned spending.

Learning these patterns and taking a moment to pause before acting on impulse can be a powerful way to regain control.

By strengthening self-awareness and learning to manage emotional triggers, it’s possible to build healthier financial habits.

5) Living beyond means

Living beyond one’s means is a behavior that’s not only financially risky, but also emotionally draining.

People who make poor finsncial decisions like to portray a lifestyle that they cannot afford, often to keep up with societal expectations or perceived standards.

This pattern is not uncommon, and it’s largely driven by the human need for social acceptance and status. However, the financial strain and stress it brings can be overwhelming.

It’s like trying to fill a void with things that are temporary and superficial. It can lead to a never-ending cycle of debt and dissatisfaction.

However, true happiness comes from living authentically and within your means, not from material possessions or societal approval.

6) Avoiding financial discussions

I’ve always found talking about money uncomfortable, even with close friends and family.

It’s a topic that seems to be wrapped in layers of taboo and unease.

But avoiding financial discussions is a common trait among those with poor financial discipline. It’s often easier to avoid the topic than to confront the reality of one’s financial situation.

Psychology suggests this avoidance can stem from fear or embarrassment about one’s financial status.

But here’s the thing – avoiding these conversations doesn’t change the reality, it only isolates us further.

Overcoming this discomfort and opening up about money matters can lead to better understanding, shared knowledge, and improved financial habits.

Trust me, it might feel awkward at first, but it gets easier with time.

7) No budgeting

Budgeting can be seen as a chore by many, but it’s a crucial part of maintaining financial discipline.

However, a common behavior among those with poor money habits is a complete disregard for budgeting.

This aversion to budgeting often comes from a fear of restriction. People tend to associate budgets with limitations and loss of freedom.

But in reality, a well-structured budget is all about giving you control over your money, not the other way around.

Not having a budget can lead to overspending and financial chaos.

On the other hand, understanding your income and expenses and planning accordingly can help you live within your means and achieve your financial goals.

8) Lack of financial education

The cornerstone of financial discipline is financial education.

Yet, a common trait among those struggling with money management is a lack of knowledge about basic financial concepts.

You don’t have to be a Wall Street expert. It’s enough to understand the fundamentals: how to save, budget, invest, and plan for the future.

Without this foundation, it’s easy to fall into poor money habits and make financial decisions based on misinformation or lack thereof.

Seeking out resources to educate oneself about finances is perhaps the most empowering step one can take towards achieving financial discipline. It’s never too late to start learning.

Final thoughts

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, money isn’t measured by dollars and cents alone—it’s reflected in how we live our lives.

The splurges, the avoidance, the lack of savings—all of it tells a story we create to distract ourselves from facing deeper truths.

The moment you recognize those patterns, you can begin to reshape them.

Financial discipline isn’t tied to deprivation or perfect spreadsheets—it’s rooted in honesty with yourself.

Why dodge bills? What drives the impulse to overspend? These are the questions that spark meaningful change, not just in your bank balance but in your perspective.

And trust me, the small victories make a difference. Whether it’s crafting a budget that truly works for you or setting aside a little extra each month, each step forward builds momentum.

 Because at the heart of financial freedom isn’t what you have—it’s how you feel. Secure. Confident. In control.

Here’s to reclaiming your financial story—one intentional choice at a time.