Why waiting could be the secret to personal growth and well-being
By willowt // 2025-10-03
Copy
 
  • Waiting can improve self-control and foster reflection, creativity and better communication.
  • Intentional practices like savoring, gratitude and mindfulness can turn waiting into opportunities for well-being.
  • Cultural differences affect perceptions of waiting, but it remains a powerful tool for personal growth.
  • Research shows that waiting is crucial for resisting short-term temptations and prioritizing long-term goals.
In a world that values instant gratification and rapid response times, waiting in line, delayed gratification, or even a short pause before reacting to stressors might seem like a waste of time. But research published by The Conversation in 2025 challenges this perception, arguing that waiting is actually beneficial for self-control, cognitive function and overall well-being. The findings suggest that by embracing "waiting" moments, individuals can potentially expand their ability to resist short-term temptations in favor of long-term goals.

Why waiting strengthens self-control

According to Ayse Burcin Baskurt, a researcher at the University of East London, simplicity in waiting—whether before eating, spending, or responding to an email—can create a crucial pause between impulse and action. Self-control, defined as the ability to regulate thoughts, emotions and behaviors, is tested in waiting moments. For instance, delaying a response to an email that has provoked you or resisting an unhealthy food while on a diet can harness this critical skill. Research shows that even small delays or pauses can cool off impulses, enabling people to prioritize their long-term objectives over immediate gratifications.

Cultural divergences in perception of waiting

There are vast differences across cultures in how waiting is perceived and experienced. In some societies, waiting can be seen as passive or inefficient, whereas in others, it can be framed as powerful and transformative. For example, reflective waiting can help individuals process their thoughts more thoroughly and uncover deeper layers of self-awareness. Gilovich studies on anticipation show that people anticipate experiences differently from material goods: thinking about a forthcoming vacation or concert generates much more excitement and joy than waiting for a new gadget or a piece of clothing.

Reframing the experience of waiting

To truly benefit from waiting moments, one needs to recognize their value and reframe them positively. Simple strategies—such as savoring the excitement of an upcoming event, practicing gratitude during moments of pause and finding meaning in the waiting to anchor self-control—can help harness the benefits of waiting.
  1. Savoring: Anticipating an event, like a vacation or a family reunion, can bring similar—if not greater—happiness compared to the event itself.
  2. Gratitude: Reflecting on what you are grateful for while waiting can shift the focus from frustration to appreciation.
  3. Mindfulness: Focusing on the present fosters emotional regulation and resilience, even during trying moments.
  4. Meaning-making: Reframe waiting as an opportunity to rest, reflect or rejuvenate.
These practices not only make waiting less tedious but also engage individuals in self-growth, enhancing mental and emotional well-being.

Implications for everyday life

The practical applications of these findings are numerous. These days, waiting is inevitable, whether it's for a medical appointment, traffic to clear, or an email to be sent. Attitudes toward these moments can influence individual well-being. Research suggests that those who can successfully harness the power of self-control during waiting moments tend to fare better in their personal and professional life. Enhanced self-regulation can lead to better decision-making, improved social relationships and overall life satisfaction. In schools and workplaces, fostering the skill of pausing and reflecting can help individuals set deeper personal and academic goals. Moreover, in clinical settings, guided waiting can be used to enhance coping mechanisms and boost resilience. Pausing before acting on emotions can lead to better decisions and improved outcomes in both personal and professional life.

Embracing waiting as a pathway to fulfillment

Understanding and reframing what we often see as frustrating waiting moments into opportunities for growth and well-being underscores a larger narrative about our relationship with time and self-control. As society becomes increasingly fast-paced, recognizing the value of waiting can empower individuals to make more thoughtful and healthier decisions. By focusing on the present, practicing gratitude and engaging in mindful reflection, waiting can become a positive, fruitful experience. As we learn to embrace these moments, we discover that waiting is not just about erasing time but about evolving, growing and nurturing our sense of fulfillment. Sources for this article include: StudyFinds.org Onlinelibrary.Wiley.com PsychologicalScience.org
Copy