The question is, do we need things immediately or do we just want it because we can have it? Have we become greedy for information and pleasure? Everyone wants to experience pleasure in their life. Pleasure feels great but it doesn't last very long. That is why we keep seeking it and often push the limits of normal behavior to try and squeeze every last bit of pleasure out of everything. They say good things come to those who wait... so why can't we wait? Are we addicted to instant gratification? Here are 3 signs:
1. Lack of Self Control
Do you have a hard time stopping certain behaviors like drinking, eating, speeding, spending, or talking about yourself? This could be a sign that you want to feel as good as can, as soon as possible, and as much as possible no matter the consequences.
2. Gossip
Do you find yourself participating frequently in conversations about other people? Do you make it a point to share any details you know about certain people at work or in your family? This could be a sign that you need to feel good by making other people look or sound bad. You may feel more superior when you talk about the questionable behavior of other people.
3. Desires are too Strong
Do you have to have the latest technology gadget, fashions, celebrity news, or information? Do you often find a way to justify the purchase of things that you really don't need? Do you have to know everything about what is happening in the news or inside of a company? You may be passionate about something but love it so much that your desire has reached an unhealthy or obsessive level. Knowing everything you can about one subject can make you feel good.
If you have some of these signs and experience them on a daily basis you may be addicted to Instant Gratification. While some of this behavior could be harmless, some of it could be causing you to act in ways that others perceive as questionable.
Here are some things to consider to help curb the need for instant gratification:
1. Acknowledge there is a problem. Admit it and begin recognize what it looks like.
2. Set boundaries so that you are not tempted. Don't go to bars. Don't eat dessert. Don't buy anything for 30 days, Turn off your phone at meals and meetings.
3. Set limits of time, portions, spending, etc. only allow a specific amount of time to spend on your passion or behavior, i.e. once a week, once a day for 30 minutes, etc.
4. Get help. Find an accountability partner or speak to a counselor.
5. Look at the root of your behavior. Is there something else missing or not right in your life that this behavior is covering up that needs to be addressed? Find it and address it.
6. Think bigger. Instant is small but waiting for something better is bigger thinking and could be more of an investment in your future.
7. Pray for guidance. God is big and can help you see how blessed you are and how to be content with what you have.
8. Spend time on more important things that add value to other people or to your future such as: Volunteer, take a class, read a book, exercise, teach, spend time with kids or seniors.
9. Go cold turkey! For example, cancel your text plan, give up sweets, be silent for hours, return the gadget to the store. Take drastic action to jump start your new line of thinking.
10. Make sure the person you are talking about is in front of you or always assume that what you are saying will be heard or scene by the person.
Start seeking joy rather than pleasure. Joy is God given, longer lasting, and usually it is a better experience than anything you can imagine on your own. Joy is harder to find but usually well worth the wait. Let go of the need for instant gratification and embrace the process of things happening at their own pace.
