You know what? Life has this funny way of testing our patience, and there’s no better example than the classic marshmallow experiment. Kids were given a choice: eat one marshmallow now, or wait a bit and get two. The results? Those who held off—those who resisted the urge—ended up being more successful later in life. Higher SAT scores, better health, and fewer problems with things like drugs. It all seems to trace back to one simple concept: delaying gratification.
Recently, I was venting to a friend about this one work task I’ve been putting off. I kept pushing it back because, honestly, I just didn’t feel like doing it. But now it’s hanging over my head, and the stress is real. My friend, who’s doing pretty well in life—academically, financially, health-wise—told me something that stuck. He said, “I don’t let stuff like that build up. I get the important things done first so they don’t stress me out later.” It hit me hard because, well, I wasn’t doing that at all.
Another friend of mine takes the same approach. He finishes his work first and then enjoys his free time or squeezes in some learning. This not only helps him balance work and life but also keeps him prepared for future opportunities like job interviews. Seems like a simple concept, right? Do your homework first. But somehow, it’s easier said than done.
Here’s the thing: people who chase instant rewards often find themselves stuck in cycles of procrastination, struggling with obesity, or even addictions—whether that’s to their phones, the internet, or worse. Studies even show there are physical differences in the brains of people who fall for instant gratification versus those who don’t. But the good news? Our brains are plastic. With continuous effort, we can rewire them to favor long-term rewards over quick fixes.
Parents, this one’s for you too. Teaching your kids to “do their homework first”—both literally and figuratively—can set them up for success. Yes, they can watch TV or eat that cake, but after they’ve put in the work. It’s a life lesson that spans far beyond childhood.
In today’s world, where doomscrolling and instant stimulation are just a tap away, this behavior is even more rampant. But if we make the effort to break the habit, we can train ourselves to focus on what’s important first, pushing aside those quick, temporary pleasures. Because deep down, we all know what needs to be done. It’s just a matter of execution.