Benefits Of Long Term Thinking
In a world obsessed with instant results, the value of long-term thinking can be easy to miss. We’re wired to want things now—whether it’s the dopamine rush of a notification, a quick snack to satisfy a craving, or visible results from a new habit. Yet some of the most profound changes in life don’t happen overnight. They’re the slow build, the quiet consistency, the seeds planted today that take years to bloom.
When I was younger, I found it hard to make long term decisions even at the thought of it being “for future me.” Who has time to think about future me when there’s so much to experience right now? Instant gratification was so much more… well, gratifying—whether it was saving money, binge-watching TV instead of studying, or skipping the sunscreen because “it’s cloudy anyway.”
The problem with instant gratification is that it’s incredibly satisfying in the moment, but the consequences usually creep up later. Now, in my 30s, I’ve become increasingly aware of the gratification of doing things with the long-term in mind. But I still fall into the trap of one dimensional thinking and wanting immediate results.
Take sunscreen, for example. Back then, it seemed tedious. Who wants to slather on a bothersome layer when you could already be out the door? But sunscreen isn’t for today—it’s for 20 years from now, when you’ll be thankful for fewer wrinkles and a lowered risk of skin cancer.
Or vitamins. Do I feel an immediate burst of energy after taking them? No. But they’re part of a bigger picture, ensuring my body has what it needs to function optimally over decades, not just hours.
The Allure of Now
Youth, by its very nature, is impatient. When you’re young, everything feels urgent: life is a buffet, and you want to sample everything while it’s hot. This urgency feeds into our culture of instant gratification. We want things fast—faster Wi-Fi, faster deliveries, faster results. But what we sacrifice in speed is sustainability.
The paradox is that some of the most rewarding things in life require patience and consistency. They’re the investments that compound over time. You might not see the returns immediately, but when they show up, they’re worth the wait. We just need to trust the process.
The Value of Long-Term Thinking
It Builds Resilience
Doing things for the long term teaches you discipline. It’s not glamorous, but there’s a pride in knowing you’re taking care of future you.It Fosters Gratitude
When you think long-term, you start to appreciate the little things you’re doing now. Whether it’s a skincare routine or saving a bit of money each month, these small acts become meaningful and accumulate.It Shifts Your Perspective
Long-term thinking forces you to zoom out. Instead of obsessing over immediate results, you start to see the bigger picture, the horizon.
Things That Have Helped Me Embrace the Long-Term Vision
Find Your Why
Whether it’s protecting your skin, nurturing your body, or saving for a dream, having a clear reason behind your actions makes them easier to stick to.Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
It’s easy to get discouraged when results don’t show up immediately. Remind yourself that every small step counts.Balance the Now and the Later
Life isn’t just about future planning. Enjoy the present, but make space for habits that benefit your long-term self.
The Quiet Payoff
Long-term thinking isn’t flashy, but it’s deeply rewarding. It’s choosing to plant seeds today, even if you won’t see the blooms for years. It’s understanding that the most valuable things in life—health, relationships, personal growth—take time and care.
So keep wearing sunscreen, taking vitamins, and doing all the other unglamorous acts of self-care. They may not give you an immediate thrill, but trust me: your future self will thank you.
