Let’s be real: we’ve all hit snooze a few too many times, skipped that workout, or fallen prey to the temptation of just one more episode—only to find ourselves deep into a Netflix binge at 2 AM.
Sound familiar? If so, don’t sweat it.
But if these moments are starting to feel more like a lifestyle than a rare slip-up, it might be a sign that your discipline and self-control have gone on vacation.
Curious if you’re in need of a reality check?
Let’s dive into 8 telltale signs that you could be seriously lacking discipline—and what you can do to turn it around!
1) Procrastination is your middle name
When it comes to getting things done, there’s a stark difference between taking a well-deserved break and constantly putting off tasks till “later”.
The latter is a surefire sign of lacking discipline and self-control.
Procrastination is the thief of time, as the saying goes.
It’s those moments when you know you should be doing something productive, yet you find yourself aimlessly scrolling through social media or indulging in yet another Netflix binge.
It’s that persistent voice in your head saying “I’ll do it later”, despite knowing that “later” often turns into “never”.
It’s the daunting pile of unchecked tasks on your to-do list that keeps growing because you can’t muster the discipline to tackle them.
Self-control and discipline are about taking action, even when it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient.
It’s about prioritizing your long-term goals over short-term gratification.
2) You’re easily swayed by impulses
Impulses are a natural part of being human. We all experience them.
However, if you find yourself constantly giving in to every whim or craving that pops into your head, it could be a sign that your self-control needs some work.
It’s like standing in a supermarket checkout line, surrounded by an array of tempting snacks. You didn’t plan to buy any, but suddenly you find a chocolate bar or a pack of chips in your hand.
Or maybe it’s the constant urge to check your email or social media feeds, even when you’re supposed to be focusing on something else.
Giving in to impulses can feel good in the moment. It’s instantly gratifying. But this immediate reward often comes at the expense of our long-term goals and well-being.
It’s a form of self-sabotage that can hold us back from achieving what we truly want.
3) Your goals remain unachieved
Having goals is one thing, but if you’re constantly falling short, it might signal a lack of discipline and self-control.
Dreaming big is easy, but it’s the daily grind—like waking up early for a workout or saving instead of spending—that requires real effort.
Sticking to your plan, even when it’s hard, is key.
If you’ve been struggling, don’t be too hard on yourself—see it as a chance to grow.
Recognizing the issue is the first step to overcoming it.
In fact, I’ve made a video where I delve into the illusion of happiness and explain why chasing it can actually make us miserable.
It’s about understanding that true contentment comes from within, by embracing life’s challenges, fostering meaningful relationships, and staying true to oneself:
And if you’d like to join me and over 30,000 others exploring a life with more purpose and freedom, consider subscribing to my YouTube channel.
Together, we can navigate this journey towards living more authentically and freely. Click here to subscribe.
4) You’re constantly in a state of chaos
Life can be messy and unpredictable, but if you find that chaos is more of a norm than an exception in your life, it may be a sign that you’re lacking discipline and self-control.
Perhaps your workspace is perpetually cluttered, making it difficult to focus and be productive.
Or maybe your schedule is so packed that you’re always rushing from one thing to another, barely having time to catch your breath.
It could also be that your finances are in disarray, with bills piling up and no clear plan for how to manage them.
This state of chaos often stems from a lack of discipline to create structures that support our well-being and a lack of self-control to stick to these structures consistently.
In my belief, true empowerment comes from taking full responsibility for our lives. This includes creating order out of chaos.
It’s about implementing systems and habits that support our goals, whether it’s:
- Maintaining a clean workspace
- Managing our time effectively
- Making wise financial decisions
5) You’re unable to say “no”
There’s a common misconception that saying “yes” to everything makes you helpful and likable.
But if you find it difficult to say “no” even when you know you should, it’s a clear sign that you’re lacking in self-control and discipline.
Perhaps you’re:
- Taking on too many projects at work
- Agreeing to social engagements you don’t have time for
- Doing favors for others at the expense of your own well-being
While being generous with your time and energy is great, it’s equally important to set boundaries and protect your own needs.
One of my core beliefs is in the transformative power of self-awareness and personal growth. It’s about understanding our worth and not being afraid to put our needs first.
Saying “no” is not an act of selfishness; it’s an act of self-love.
So if you’re constantly overcommitting yourself, it’s time for some introspection.
Are you doing this out of a genuine desire to help, or is it because you’re seeking approval or avoiding conflict?
Just as importantly, it’s a crucial step towards living authentically and honoring your own needs.
For further insights on this topic, I encourage you to watch my video where I share seven crucial life lessons that I wish I had learned earlier in life.
It includes insights on breaking free from the need for constant approval:
6) You’re always ‘busy’
In today’s fast-paced world, being ‘busy’ is often glorified. But if you’re always on the go without making real progress, it could signal a lack of discipline and self-control.
Busyness can be deceiving, masking procrastination or avoidance.
We often fill our time with small tasks to dodge the bigger, more important ones. This constant rush can lead to burnout and hinder personal growth.
Discipline means focusing on what truly matters, while self-control helps us resist ‘busy work’ and make room for meaningful, focused tasks.
7) You often feel regretful
Regret is a powerful emotion. It whispers in our ears about the things we wish we had or hadn’t done.
If you frequently find yourself wallowing in regret, it might be an indication that you’re lacking discipline and self-control.
Perhaps you regret:
- Not sticking to your workout regime
- Missing deadlines
- Making impulsive purchases that put a dent in your savings
These instances of regret often stem from a lack of discipline to stay committed to our decisions and a lack of self-control to resist momentary temptations.
Regret can serve as a useful tool for self-reflection and growth if approached constructively.
It can act as a mirror, reflecting our areas of weakness and giving us an opportunity to learn and improve.
8) Your relationships are suffering
Relationships are an important part of our lives. They provide us with support, joy, and companionship.
But if your relationships are suffering due to your actions (or lack thereof), it could be a sign that you’re lacking discipline and self-control.
Maybe you’re always late for meet-ups with friends because you couldn’t manage your time well. Or perhaps your partner feels neglected because you’re not prioritizing quality time with them.
It could also be that your work relationships are strained because of missed deadlines or unfulfilled promises.
Discipline and self-control play a crucial role in maintaining healthy relationships. They enable us to fulfill our commitments, respect others’ time, and balance our personal and professional lives effectively.
The power of self-discipline and control
If any of these signs hit a little too close to home, don’t worry—you’re not alone, and it’s never too late to get back on track.
Recognizing where discipline is lacking is the first step toward strengthening it.
With a bit of self-awareness and the right mindset, you can turn those bad habits around and take control of your goals.
If you’d like to join me and over 30,000 others exploring a life with more purpose and freedom, consider subscribing to my YouTube channel.
Together, we can navigate this journey towards living more authentically and freely. Click here to subscribe.
Finally, as you reflect on these signs in your own life, consider this: What changes can you make today to cultivate more discipline and self-control?
How can these changes support you in living more authentically, in alignment with your deepest values?
