Near-instant gratification.

Most of our strategic goals take time in order to lead to results.

For instance, going regularly to the gym or eating healthier might show changes in a few months. Consistently initiating conversations and creating opportunities might lead to a financial return in a similar time period. Organically reaching out and building personal connections might again take at least a few weeks or maybe months to find someone you get to be in a relationship with.

That’s all good. But how do we ensure that we stay on track for this time? What’s the biggest flaw in the plan?

The flaw, I think, is that all the gratification is in the future and there is a big dip we need to cross.

How can we make this easier?

What if we can find activities that can give gratification in the short term while not affecting the long term progress of our goals?

What if we find some foods that we can eat that can give pleasure in the immediate present? What about finding some activities to spend money on that bring us joy? What about spending time with existing friends or maybe spend time in nature or reading fiction or listening to music that give some immediate relief?

More often than not, it’s the lack of the immediate gratification that derails our long term plans.

If you have a restless child in your car for a long journey, it may be a good strategy to keep the child entertained. It might make the journey more bearable.