Introduction

Delayed gratification, or deferred gratification, is the resistance to the temptation of an immediate pleasure in the hope of obtaining a valuable and long-lasting reward in the long-term. In other words, delayed gratification describes the process that the subject undergoes when the subject resists the temptation of an immediate reward in preference for a later reward that is more favorable. (Wikipedia, 2016) This idea has wide-ranging effects on one’s ability to grow personally, success, and overall well-being. In this essay, we will take a look at the importance of delayed gratification, its effects on people as individuals, and how it benefits the society as a whole.

Marshmallow Test

The idea of delayed gratification was first introduced by Walter Mischel in his well-known “marshmallow test” undertaken in the late 1960s. Children who, as 4-year-olds, could resist a tempting marshmallow placed in front of them, and instead hold out for a larger reward in the future (two marshmallows), became adults who were more likely to finish college and earn higher incomes, and were less likely to become overweight. (Winerman, 2014) In this expirement, children were given a choice between an immediate little reward, such as one marshmallow, or the promise of greater reward, such as two marshmallows, if they could wait for a specific amount of time in this experiment. The outcome of this study revealed that children who were able to postpone gratification tended to have better life outcomes, such as higher educational achievement, better health, and greater overall success.

The power of Self-Discipline

Delayed gratification is closely tied to self-discipline. Self-discipline is a pivotal skill that enables the acquisition and development of other skills such as perseverance, resilience, commitment, stamina, self-motivation, self-confidence, rigour, organisation, autonomy, and so on. (Central Test, 2023) People must exercise self-control and make decisions that support their long-term objectives. When someone has the capacity to postpone satisfaction, they can avoid rash decisions and indulgence in favor of doing something more significant down the road. This self-discipline is a crucial aspect of personal development and character building.

Pursuing education is one of the best real-world instances of delayed gratification. In order to pursue a more promising profession and future financial security, students frequently forgo their current leisure activities in favor of devoting time and energy to their education. This long-term focus on education exemplifies the power of delayed gratification.

Conclusion

Delayed gratification is a foundational concept that influences various aspects of human life. It emphasizes the value of self-control, growth, and pursuing long-term objectives. One quality that sets successful people apart and betterment of society is their capacity to postpone pleasure in favor of bigger, longer-term gains. In a world that often prioritizes instant gratification, those who can master this skill are better equipped to achieve their dreams and build a brighter tomorrow.

References

Wikipedia, 2016. Delated gratification. Read is on 02.10.2023

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delayed_gratification

Winerman, L., 2014. Acing the marshmallow test. Read is on 16.10.2023

https://www.apa.org/monitor/2014/12/marshmallow-test

Central Test, 2023. Soft skills: The power of self-discipline – become the person you admire!. Read is on 20.10.2023

https://www.centraltest.com/blog/soft-skills-power-self-discipline-become-person-you-admire