How to get better at delaying gratification: A guide for teens and parents

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Have you ever been tempted by that “Buy Now” button for something you never even knew you needed? Or found yourself watching just one more episode, even when you promised you’d stop? In a world where everything happens instantly, learning how to get better at delaying gratification is more important than ever. Today, teens (and parents, too!) aren’t exactly set up for success when everything is built for instant gratification.

In this post, we’ll explore useful strategies, daily habits, and expert-backed insights to help teens strengthen their impulse control and build patience.

Long-term benefits for teens

Patience isn’t just about waiting; it’s about building a foundation for future success. “Research shows that people who acquire this ability tend to choose healthier lifestyles while achieving better academic performance and building more authentic relationships,” says Dr. Lisa Pion-Berlin, a licensed hypnotherapist and CEO of Parents Anonymous®, a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing child abuse and providing emotional support to parents and families.