It is this uncertainty that makes giving up immediate rewards so difficult. ... McGuire of the University of Pennsylvania suggest that our uncertainty about future rewards is what makes delaying gratification such a challenge. "The timing of real-world events is not always so predictable," they explain.
Is delayed gratification worth it?
Studies show that delayed gratification is one of the most effective personal traits of successful people. ... Over time, delaying gratification will improve your self-control and ultimately help you achieve your long-term goals faster.
How can delayed gratification be improved?
How to Become Better at Delaying Gratification
- Start incredibly small. Make your new habit “so easy you can't say no.” (Hat tip to Leo Babauta.)
- Improve one thing, by one percent. Do it again tomorrow.
- Use the “Seinfeld Strategy” to maintain consistency.
- Find a way to get started in less than 2 minutes.
