6 morning habits of people who have exceptional levels of discipline and self-control

We’ve all encountered people who seem to have an unshakable will—those who consistently stick to their goals, no matter the obstacles.

It’s easy to admire their discipline and wonder how they maintain such control over their lives.

But here’s the thing: their self-mastery isn’t a mystery.

Behind that unwavering resolve are daily habits, especially in the morning, that set the tone for everything that follows.

These aren’t just routines; they’re powerful rituals that reinforce their discipline and strengthen their self-control.

In this article, we’ll uncover seven morning habits practiced by people with exceptional levels of discipline. Ready to elevate your own self-control and start your day like the most disciplined among us?

Let’s dive in.

1) They’re early risers

There’s a reason why the early bird catches the worm. People with high levels of discipline and self-control know that getting a jump on the day can make a world of difference.

They are often up before the sun, ready to take on the day while most are still nestled in their beds.

It’s not about punishing themselves with a painfully early alarm clock, but about maximizing their productivity and effectiveness. Don’t believe me? 

You don’t have to. Research shows that early risers are more productive and make more money than their later-rising counterparts. 

Waking up early provides them with quiet, uninterrupted time to focus on tasks or engage in activities that matter to them. It can be for exercise, meditation, reading, or planning the day ahead.

If you’re not a natural early riser, it doesn’t mean you can’t become one. It takes discipline and self-control, but once it becomes a habit, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without that precious morning time.

2) Morning exercise

This is a big one. 

As noted by Healthline, getting your body moving first thing in the morning boosts your mood and energy levels, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day.

You might be surprised to learn that regular exercise also contributes to improved cognitive abilities.

Experts have noted that regular physical activity can improve memory and thinking skills, and even improve resilience. 

The point is whether it’s a brisk walk, a quick run, yoga, or a full-blown gym session, disciplined people make exercise an integral part of their morning routine.

It’s not just about keeping the body fit, but also about keeping the mind sharp and focused.

So why not give it a try? Swap out the snooze button for some sneakers and start your day on a high note.

3) Setting daily goals

“Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible.” – Tony Robbins

People with exceptional levels of discipline and self-control know the importance of setting daily goals.

They understand that having a clear plan helps to maintain focus and productivity throughout the day.

Every morning, they take a few minutes to outline what they want to achieve. This could include work-related tasks, personal goals or even things they want to learn.

Setting daily goals helps them to stay organized and prioritize their tasks.

It also provides a sense of accomplishment at the end of the day when they can tick off the items on their to-do list.

This doesn’t mean that every minute of their day is scheduled down to the last detail.

Rather, it’s about having a clear vision of what needs to be done and making the most of their time.

4) Gratitude practice

Ariana Huffington, Tony Robbins, and Oprah Winfrey – what do they all have in common? 

Well, they are all hyper-successful, yes. But as noted by CNBC, they also all credit gratitude as a factor in their success. 

Expressing gratitude every morning helps to start the day on a positive note. It allows them to appreciate the blessings they have and approach the day with optimism.

They might maintain a gratitude journal, writing down the things they’re grateful for, or simply take a few quiet moments to reflect on their blessings.

It’s a habit that cultivates positivity and contentment.

Practicing gratitude is more than just saying ‘thank you’. It’s about acknowledging the good in life and realizing how fortunate we are. It’s a heartfelt practice that can bring about a profound change in our outlook towards life.

5) Meditation and mindfulness

I’ll be honest, I used to be a bit skeptical about meditation. It seemed like something reserved for the deeply spiritual or those with an abundance of free time.

But then I tried it, and it completely changed my perspective.

Spending a few minutes each morning in quiet contemplation helps me stay grounded and focused throughout the day.

It helps me manage stress better, improves my focus, and helps me approach situations with a calmer mindset.

Whether you choose to meditate or simply spend a few moments each morning in quiet reflection, this habit can do wonders for your mental clarity and overall composure.

It may take a bit of discipline to make it a regular practice, but trust me, it’s worth it.

6) Consistency

The most important thing to remember when it comes to morning habits is consistency.

People with exceptional self-control didn’t get there overnight. They built their routines over time, sticking to them consistently until they became second nature.

Consistency turns actions into habits, and habits into a lifestyle. It’s about showing up every day, even when you don’t feel like it. It’s about pushing through the tough days and celebrating the good ones.

Final thought: It’s about the journey

The path towards discipline and self-control is not a swift sprint but a steady marathon.

Renowned author Zig Ziglar once said, “People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing – that’s why we recommend it daily.”

In the context of our morning habits, Ziglar’s quote hits home. A single day of waking up early, exercising or practicing mindfulness won’t bring about transformation.

It’s the repetition, the consistency, that cultivates discipline and self-control.

So as you embark on this journey, remember that each step, no matter how small, is a step forward. It’s not just about reaching the destination, but also appreciating the journey.

And with each sunrise, you have another chance to make it count.