One of the major determinants of success is the ability to delay or postpone immediate gratification. You can see that from reading books such as Daniel Goleman’s Emotional Intelligence; you can also see it in this marshmellow video. You may want to read some more about the marshmellow principle of success. [<-- quick read]
An example of delayed gratification is to save for retirement. We sacrifice immediate consumption, in the hope that when we grow old, we will have a decent nest egg. For what? That is the question that J.D. at getrichslowly asks his readers. You can see the comments to see why some people are saving up for retirement.
Now, what does that have to do with the CPA exam? Well, in our own way, we (CPA candidates,) delay gratification. We put off or cut down on partying, sleeping, drinking, working, socializing, …. in order to pass the exam. For what?
The passion, definiteness, and clarity with which you answer that question determines your commitment to studying, to doing all that needs to be done to pass the CPA exam. That answer will provide motivation for passing up on immediate pleasures and putting studying first. It is one of those things that are hard to fake, because ultimately, you are responsible to yourself. You don’t have to convince anyone that you are commited or that the end result motivates you. Your actions will tell. Even if nobody sees, you will know. So, that’s my theory: one’s commitment and motivation to study for the CPA is (strongly) positively correlated to how one values the reward of passing the CPA exam. [No guilt trip: You = me, I as well!]
This applies to most aspects of life, be it preparing for the CPA exam, exercising, saving, investing, frugality, reconciling with our “enemies”, etc. We always have to choose between immediate smaller but immediate comfort or gratification versus future bigger reward. What choice are you going to make? What for?
Thanks for reading, and I hope you found that helpful. Your comments are welcome.
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