What is the best word to describe a person that has done the same thing contractually for a long period of time, to the point in which they still carry out these tasks without being specifically contracted to do so?
For example, an army recruit waking up every day at the crack of dawn to go for a run or exercise even after their service is through.
Best Answer
The term automaton might suit
Merriam-Webster
Note that this term often has a slightly pejorative tone and is often used to convey lack of emotion as much as routine behavior.