Delayed gratification is a performance skill.
I saw a clip recently where Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza said delayed gratification is one of the greatest attributes because it takes discipline in your process and preparation to execute like every rep matters.
This hits home for money too.
One reason delayed gratification is hard is that things are usually pretty good right now. We have needs, sure, but our brains also create new needs every day. There will always be something that feels urgent in the moment.
A lot of the time that need is really a want in disguise. Delayed gratification is the pause that says I am okay right now. This can wait. Future me matters.
In real life it looks like
• Setting up a budget with principles that act as guideposts for decisions
• Waiting and planning before making a significant purchase
• Not upgrading your lifestyle the moment you get a raise or for athletes, that first NIL or revenue share check
• Saving or investing before you spend the extra
Simple rule. Make the future easier than the present. Automate the good decisions so willpower is not the plan.
One thing I use is a 10 day principle. If I want to buy anything over a set amount, like $200, I wait 10 days. Most of the time the urgency fades. Sometimes 10 days turns into 20. Often it turns into not buying it at all.
Find things you can delay this month because your long term goals matter more.