In my opinion, the two most highly overrated concepts in life are:

1. Pursuit of Perfection

2. Delayed Gratification

Actually, the two concepts share some similarities.  Both compel us to wait for just the right time and each, in their own way, diminishes the joy of living.

The first, the pursuit of perfection has been discussed in a previous article on this site, Pursuit of Perfection—The Impossible Dream.   We may fear that we won't live up to the unattainable expectations of ourselves or others. 

Delayed gratification, however, bears some further discussion. 

If we want gratification now, we're labeled hedonistic, selfish, foolish, or downright reckless.  But delayed gratification itself is not without risk.  How long is the proper amount of time to delay?  If we wait just a little longer, won't the rewards be that much sweeter?   But since the perfect time never exists, are we setting ourselves up for failure, frustration, second-guessing, or regrets?  We didn't wait long enough.  We waited too long.  Or perhaps do we feel unworthy and are paradoxically happier when we practice self-deprivation?

Please indulge me as I offer some examples.

In the end, it comes down to having the courage to make a decision—usually a compromise of some sort—that allows us to maximize our chances of succeeding without expecting or demanding perfection from ourselves.  Our goal should be to seek out some middle ground in between these two contradictory proverbs:

Prolonging a mindset of self-deprivation or endlessly postponing a decision can wreak havoc with our peace of mind.

I'm suggesting that we neither rush out and max out our actual or cosmic credit cards, nor hoard every penny for a day that might never arrive.

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