Glossary

Delayed Gratification

What is Delayed Gratification?

  • Delayed Gratification is the ability to resist the temptation of an immediate reward in favor of a more valuable or long-term reward.
  • This concept is critical in many areas of life, including education, career development, and personal growth, as it helps individuals stay focused on their long-term goals rather than succumbing to short-term desires.
  • Developing this skill is beneficial for both students, who may need to prioritize studying over immediate entertainment, and professionals.

Why is it important for success?

  • Improved Self-Control: Delayed gratification teaches individuals to manage impulses and make choices that align with their long-term goals.
  • Better Academic and Career Outcomes: For students, it leads to better study habits and academic performance, while for professionals, it supports career growth and financial stability.
  • Greater Resilience: The ability to delay gratification builds resilience, as individuals learn to tolerate discomfort and delay pleasure .

How can coaching help develop Delayed Gratification?

  • Coaching can help individuals set clear long-term goals and develop the self-discipline needed to achieve them, even when faced with tempting distractions.
  • For students, coaching might focus on creating structured study plans, setting academic goals, and learning how to resist procrastination.
  • For professionals, coaching can help with goal setting, time management, and maintaining focus on long-term career objectives, ensuring that immediate rewards do not derail progress toward more substantial achievements.
paper pinned on corkboard that says "Delayed" depicting Delayed Gratification

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