The antidote to instant gratification and pleasure-seeking is having a strong clear vision for the future — having a ‘why’ and purpose.
“Those who have a ‘why’ to live, can bear with almost any ‘how’.”
Some of the most successful wealthy people are masters at delaying instant gratification. They forgo temporary pleasure and lean into the discomfort of the present. They understand that their present behaviours are an investment in the future version of themselves.
People who have a stronger connection to the future versions of themselves are typically the most disciplined, patient, conscientiousness and subsequently successful.
What would be so worthwhile in your life that succumbing to instant gratification would be more of an impedance than pleasure?
The negative consequences of not doing what you say you were going to do need to be severe enough for you to actually care about them.
Most teenagers and young adults eventually grow out of drinking and partying because they attain meaningful responsibilities that require them to be better versions of themselves for a higher purpose.
They realise maintaining their old lifestyle would be an impediment to their new lifestyle that they realise is better for their wellbeing and prosperity.
Ask yourself: what type of life do you dream of having that would be worth giving up some of your instant gratification pleasure-seeking behaviour?