We live in a world where instant gratification is the norm. We can get anything we want, when we want it. But this constant need for instant gratification can be harmful to our long-term goals.
When we focus on instant gratification, we're not thinking about the big picture. We're not thinking about what we really want for ourselves. We're just thinking about what we want right now.
But the big picture is what's important, because the big picture is what's going to make us happy in the long run.
Paint your 'Big Picture'
Forgoing short-term gain for long-term gain is not always easy. But it's more than likely going to be worth considering. When you focus on your big picture, you're more likely to do things that contribute to how you want your life to be. All in service of your contentment in the long run.
If you're struggling to forgo short-term gain for long-term gain, here are a few tips:
Think about what you really want in life. What are your goals? What are your dreams? Know Thyself.
Make a plan. Once you know what you want, you can start to make a plan.
Be patient. It takes time to get to where you want to. Don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately.
Stay focused on the big picture. Don't get caught up in the day-to-day grind. Keep your eyes on the prize.
Here are some examples of how forgoing short-term gain for long-term gain can be beneficial:
If you want to be financially secure, you might need to forgo some of the things you want now in order to save money the Big Things.
If you want to be healthy, you might need to forgo some of the unhealthy foods you're tempted by for the sake of your future self.
If you want to be successful in your career or family life, you might need to forgo any free time you enjoy now in order to put time and energy into other people, places and things.
Sounds simple. Feels difficult
It's important to remember that forgoing short-term gain for long-term gain is not about deprivation. It's about making choices that will help you get to where you want to go and be who you want to be in the long run.