You know that rush you get when you hear about something that could change your life?
That’s the moment when everything inside you screams: “Yes! Sign me up right now!” I love that energy—truly. In fact, some of my best clarity sessions start because someone’s excitement couldn’t wait until tomorrow. They book within minutes of discovering my work, and we dive right in.
But there’s also a downside to impulse decisions. Shannon Fromma of the Times Union offers solid advice on how to curb your enthusiasm so you don’t regret your decision later.
Yes, there’s such a thing: sometimes, that same spark fizzles just as quickly as it was ignited. A few weeks later, the emails go silent, the follow-through stops, and that fire that once felt unstoppable turns into “Maybe later.”
Why We Love Instant Gratification
Instant gratification isn’t always the villain in the story. In fact, that burst of motivation can:
- Push you out of your comfort zone
- Give you the courage to take the first step
- Make change feel possible—right now
It’s like the adrenaline shot before a big race: it gets you to the starting line.
Where It Can Trip Us Up
The trouble comes when we mistake that initial buzz for the whole journey. Because here’s the truth: the kind of transformation I help people create isn’t a quick sprint—it’s more like building a bridge. A bridge strong enough to carry you for the rest of your life.
In fact, research shows that the ability to delay gratification is one of the strongest predictors of lasting success and well-being. The American Psychological Association explains how strengthening willpower and managing impulses can help you stay committed to long-term goals—especially once the initial excitement has cooled.
Quick fixes can patch a crack, but deep work reinforces the whole foundation. That takes more than seven days. It takes showing up, week after week, long after the spark has faded.
Finding the Balance
I’m not here to pour cold water on enthusiasm; quite the opposite. I’m here to help you channel that first rush into lasting momentum. Think of it like this:
- Strike while the iron is hot – Book the call. Commit.
- Plan for the marathon – Expect days when motivation dips. That’s normal.
- Celebrate the small wins – Each choice builds the deeper change you came for.
When you combine the spark of instant gratification with the steadiness of endurance, that’s when the magic happens.
Your Turn
If you’ve been feeling that “I’m ready now!” spark, use it. Book your free clarity session while the momentum is fresh. But come with your running shoes—because together, we’re building something that lasts.