Now vs. Later

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I am a short-term thinker.

I've come to this realization relatively recently (instead of calling me stupid, can we just say I lack self-awareness?) but after putting a name to it I see examples of my short-term thinking all the time:
-  reading the fun new book I got vs. grading the student essays that need to be returned tomorrow
-  a cookie right now vs. jeans that need to be buttoned later this week
-  a nap vs. the trip to the post office that needs to be made
-  watching Project Runway on DVR vs. balancing my checkbook (Just kidding with this one! Like anyone balances their checkbook anymore . . . except if my dad ever reads this, I totally do!)

In each of these cases, plus tons more that happen on a regular basis, my mind focuses on the now as opposed to the future. The now is concrete, promising instant gratification and immediate rewards. The future is nebulous and uncertain. Heck, we have all kinds of proverbs stating it might not even happen! Why in the world would I want to delay something definite now in exchange for the possibility of something in the future?

The problem with this, of course, is that this is an argument a toddler would make (if, of course, said toddler had my keen grasp of the English language). Like it or not, I'm a grown-up, and grown-ups make these hard choices every day. Grown-ups think through the consequences of their actions and make the choice that has the most long-term benefits, even if the short-term is unpleasant or difficult or maybe even seems impossible. Grown-ups learn from their mistakes and try really hard not to make the same ones over and over again. Grown-ups admit their failures and weaknesses, too, and ask for help when they need it.

Let's just say it: Being a grown-up kind of sucks. But it's better than being a 34-year-old whiny baby, because let me tell you, that junk is NOT cute. Please watch anything on the E! network if you don't believe me.

When I have one of these "short-term moments," first I try really hard to recognize that that's what's going on. Then I let my inner toddler whine and carry on and use her twisted-but-oh-so-attractive logic. Sometimes I'll ask myself, "What do you want to do?" then follow that question up with, "What would a real grown-up do?" Then I try to suck it up and do the second thing.

I'm far from perfect in this regard. This past week I've skipped many runs and eaten many cookies and just might need to find some elastic-waist slacks to wear to work next week (elastic-waist slacks being sister code for the Dark Side). I've avoided some school work I need to catch up on. And, in the spirit of irony, I started a blog instead of cleaning the bathroom. I'm obviously a work in progress, people.

I also want to say that, although I've focused on personal examples here, short-term thinking has huge effects and implications on society, the environment, and politics. I don't want to gloss over that, so feel free to comment on those aspects if you want to.


What does your short-term thinking look like? Have you conquered your inner three-year-old? Do you really want a cookie right now and if so, will you share? See you in the comments.