Conscientiousness: when self-discipline brings us closer to success

As the popular proverb points out, “every scrupulous person will always be needy.” What do we know about the psychological trait of conscientiousness? From the field of human resources and personality theories, it is common to associate this characteristic with success and also with those interesting aspects that bring us closer to achieving great objectives.

Is this true? Are scrupulous men and women figures of irrefutable competence and personal solvency? Seems that if. Researchers such as Paul Tough, author of the well-known book How Kids Succeed: Determination, Curiosity, and the Power of Character notes that This characteristic is present in those figures who manage to achieve their vital goals.

Now, there are also those who view these types of traits with some discomfort. They distrust them because they are particularly perfectionist and self-demanding. Conscientiousness leaves no room for carelessness, error, and even less room for procrastination.. In the eyes of others, they show a certain addiction to work and an orientation towards achievement that can, at times, seem excessive.

Well it is true that Popular culture filters this personality typology with a certain negativity.. However, it can pleasantly surprise us if we analyze it in detail.

Conscientiousness, what does this personality trait consist of?

As research on conscientiousness as a personality trait progresses, one aspect is becoming aware: we are facing a dimension that is as desirable as it is beneficial in every way. Studies such as those carried out by psychologist Brent Walter Roberts of the University of Illinois tell us that We are facing a construct that is related to quality of life.

Furthermore, in many scenarios regarding human development, the field of business or personal growth, conscientiousness is seen as one of the primary dimensions of success throughout life. Are we exaggerating? If we analyze it a little more in detail we will discover that there is little that is excessive and a lot that is interesting.

The perseverance

University of Pennsylvania psychologist Angela Duckworth is author of the book Grit: passion and perseverance, a work on how people achieve success. In it he tells us something interesting. Talent and intelligence are not two variables that guide human beings towards happiness or success in an inescapable way.

Actually, One of the traits that can help us reach the peak of well-being and satisfaction is conscientiousness.. It integrates perseverance, achievement orientation and daily effort towards what one wants.

Likewise, the conscientious person demonstrates high self-control, industriousness and responsibility with himself and his goals. All of these areas are what build the true path to success.

Planning and responsibility

Conscientiousness is the opposite of impulsiveness. The person with this personality trait never acts without thinking or leaves anything to chance. They are planners, self-demanding, perfectionists and they set feasible daily goals that they can easily assume.

In addition, They take responsibility for themselves in every area of ​​their lives. always trying to give the best of their abilities.

Consistency and competence

People defined by conscientiousness are diligent and thorough. If a problem arises, they do not lose their calm and focus all their resources on solving that incident..

Now, if they make a mistake they rarely come down. They are constant, with a great resistance to frustration, which allows them to learn from their mistakes and try new ways of doing things until they achieve success.

What you show to others matters

The image we show to others also defines part of who we are and this is relevant to the figure defined by conscientiousness.

People with this trait they perceive themselves as competent men and women and that essence is what they also seek to show to others.

The art of deliberation

The good art of deliberation is the resource that optimizes the most effective and successful decisions. Something like this is achieved from that conscientiousness that focuses on the ability to deliberate correctly. What does this mean? That before drawing a conclusion, each aspect and each variable must be considered.

Rush is never a good companion, so the ideal is to go calmly and reflect before acting.

Conscientiousness and self-discipline

We could say without mistake that conscientiousness always goes hand in hand with high self-discipline. Follow schedules, set daily goals, improve yourself a little more every day, be demanding of oneself and take the reins of self-control They are undoubtedly pillars on which this personality is based.

Self-care is important

If there is something that defines a scrupulous man or woman, it is consistency. His self-discipline is not restricted only to the professional field, to his desire to achieve goals and objectives.. For them, self-care is also important, taking care of their quality of life, taking care of their relationships… A full life also requires discipline and knowing what is most decisive at any given moment.

In conclusion, Conscientiousness is defined above all by having an internal locus of control. Thus, when one tries to ensure that each situation is under the control of one’s own competencies, efforts and determinations, there is greater existential satisfaction.

On the other hand, we are faced with a series of personality traits that we can all train to a large extent. It’s never too late.

You might be interested…