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Writer's pictureAli Syed

Delayed gratification: Why it's worth waiting for what you want


So you want that new video game, but you know you should save your money for something more important, like a new car. Or maybe you want to go out with your friends, but you know you should study for that upcoming exam. What do you do?


If you're like most people, you're probably tempted to give in to your immediate desires. But if you can resist the temptation and wait for what you really want, you'll be glad you did.


That's because delayed gratification is a powerful skill that can help you achieve your goals and live a happier life. When you can delay gratification, you're essentially saying that you value the long-term reward more than the short-term pleasure. And this can lead to all sorts of benefits, including:

  • You're more likely to achieve your goals: People who are good at delaying gratification are more likely to achieve their goals. This is because they're able to stay focused on the long term and resist the temptation of distractions.

  • You have stronger self-control: Delayed gratification is a form of self-control, and the more you practice it, the stronger your self-control will become. This can help you make better decisions in all areas of your life, from your finances to your relationships.

  • You're less stressed and anxious: When you're not constantly worrying about the short-term, you're more likely to be relaxed and at peace. This can lead to a healthier and happier life.

Of course, delayed gratification isn't always easy. It can be tough to resist temptation, especially when the rewards are immediate. But the benefits of delayed gratification are worth the effort.


So if you want to achieve your goals, improve your self-control, and reduce stress and anxiety, start practicing delayed gratification today. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

  • Break down your goals into smaller steps: This will make them seem less daunting and more achievable.

  • Set realistic expectations: Don't expect to be able to delay gratification overnight. It takes time and practice.

  • Find ways to reward yourself for your progress: This will help you stay motivated and on track.

  • Find a support system: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your goals and challenges.


Remember, delayed gratification is a skill that takes time and practice to develop. But it is a skill that is well worth the effort. So don't give up! Keep practicing, and you will eventually see the benefits.


Here are some examples of how delayed gratification can be beneficial in both professional and personal life:

  • In your career: If you want to get a promotion, you may need to delay gratification by working hard and putting in long hours. You may also need to delay gratification by taking on challenging projects that may not be immediately rewarding. However, if you are able to delay gratification, you are more likely to achieve your career goals.

  • In your relationships: If you want to have a strong and lasting relationship, you may need to delay gratification by putting the needs of your partner first. You may also need to delay gratification by compromising and making sacrifices. However, if you are able to delay gratification, you are more likely to have a happy and fulfilling relationship.

  • In your personal life: If you want to achieve your personal goals, such as getting in shape or saving money, you may need to delay gratification by eating healthy foods and exercising regularly. You may also need to delay gratification by spending less money than you earn. However, if you are able to delay gratification, you are more likely to achieve your personal goals.

On the other hand, there are also some risks associated with not practicing delayed gratification. For example, if you are unable to delay gratification, you may be more likely to make impulsive decisions that you later regret. You may also be more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors, such as overeating or spending too much money.


Delayed gratification is an important skill that can be learned and developed. It can help you achieve your goals, improve your self-control, reduce stress and anxiety, and make better decisions in all areas of your life. If you are able to delay gratification, you are more likely to live a happy and successful life.


So what are you waiting for? Start practicing delayed gratification today!

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