A Chance Meeting with a Young Businessman
This morning, I stopped at the gas station to fill up my car and a large truck pulled up next to me. It was a late model work truck with a company logo on the side. A young man jumped out to fill his truck.
I noticed his sweatshirt. “Nice sweatshirt you have,” I said. “I love your logo and your slogan. Do you mind if I take a picture of it?”
“No problem,” he said as he reached out his hand. “I’m Austin Blood.”
His sweatshirt read, ‘Work Hard, Play Later.’ I could sense he was someone with a strong conviction and a quality mindset. His truck was spotless. He was clean shaven, bright and engaging.
“Tell me about your business,” I asked.
“We have been in business for nearly four years. I have a large crew. We do a lot of remodeling work throughout Orange County,” he explained. “We take a lot of pride in our work and work hard for our clients and each other.”
“Do you mind me asking how old you are?” I questioned.
“I’m 28 years old,” he shared.
My face turned into a big broad smile, and I said, “That’s fantastic! At 28 you have figured out one of life’s most important lessons, delayed gratification. Well done and continued success!”
“It’s worked for me so far,” he shared.
The Power of Delayed Gratification
When you think about it, delayed gratification is something that conflicts with our basic inner self.
Early survival required that we take advantage of immediate opportunities, such as eating when an opportunity presented itself. Perhaps as we evolved, deeper thinking took hold and the notion of waiting for a better outcome developed.
Many research studies have been conducted on the power of delaying gratification, with results often supporting the power that comes from enhanced self-control. This results in the growth of positive life skills and reflects a maturity and self-awareness…as well as an awareness of those around you.
Practical Benefits of Delayed Gratification
- Improved Self-Control
It strengthens executive function and impulse control, which are crucial for goal-setting and long-term success. - Better Academic and Career Outcomes
Studies show that children who delay gratification tend to perform better academically and professionally later in life. - Financial Stability
Choosing to save rather than spend impulsively leads to better financial health, investment growth, and reduced debt. - Health and Wellness
Delaying gratification can lead to healthier choices—like exercising instead of indulging in junk food—resulting in long-term physical and mental well-being. - Stronger Relationships
Patience and restraint often lead to more thoughtful communication and deeper emotional bonds.
Moral Benefits of Delayed Gratification
- Cultivation of Virtue
Delayed gratification is closely tied to virtues like temperance, prudence, and fortitude. It reflects moral maturity and ethical discipline. - Respect for Others
Resisting selfish impulses often means prioritizing others’ needs, fostering empathy, generosity, and fairness. - Integrity and Trustworthiness
People who practice delayed gratification are often seen as more reliable and principled, which builds trust in personal and professional relationships. - Responsibility and Accountability
Choosing long-term good over short-term pleasure reflects a sense of duty and responsibility—hallmarks of moral character. - Spiritual and Philosophical Growth
Many religious and philosophical traditions view self-denial and restraint as paths to enlightenment, wisdom, or closeness to the divine.
We all can benefit from delayed gratification in many areas of our life.
Maybe the things Austin has learned from delayed gratification are the reasons his company is growing and is featuring such great customer reviews? Probably doesn’t hurt.
Mark DeBellis, 10/2025