What does deferred gratification imply?

Deferred gratification refers to the ability to resist the temptation for an immediate reward and wait for a later reward, which is often seen as more valuable. This concept emphasizes the importance of prioritizing long-term benefits over short-term satisfaction. When someone practices deferred gratification, they consciously choose to delay immediate pleasure or satisfaction to achieve a greater outcome in the future.

In the context of personal finance or goal setting, this can involve making sacrifices in the present—such as saving money instead of spending it—so that one can invest in a larger goal, like buying a home or funding education, later on. It highlights the understanding that the pain of immediate sacrifice can lead to greater rewards in the future, which integrates well with principles of effective personal and professional success.

The other options reflect different concepts. Instant satisfaction and seeking immediate rewards imply a preference for short-term pleasure, while long-term sacrifice captures the essence of making sacrifices, but it does not fully encompass the active decision-making process involved in deferment. Ignoring current suffering might suggest a lack of awareness or address of present circumstances, which does not align with the mindful practice of deferred gratification.