In today’s world everything seems to be fast paced. We longer post letters because we’ll rather use emails or an instant message using any of the social media platforms available. Buying and selling also goes on online now via various e-commerce platforms. People also don’t wait any longer till they have enough to meet a need, there are all sorts of credit facilities available to ensure the needs are met asap. All of this sounds great but amidst it all is also the “I’ve got to have it now” mindset also referred to as the “microwave mentality”.

Many people are keeping up with a lifestyle that is above their income. They are spending the money they don’t have to meet a lifestyle they crave for. They do not want to grow into anything and that is why people take loans to do almost everything amongst which are buying a TV or car, going on a vacation and paying exorbitant school fees amongst others. One thing that is important we teach our children is that quality takes time. Although we sometimes forget that because we have all become so impatient, the fact remains that there is a price to pay for anything good. It won’t just come at the snap of our fingers.

Teaching our children delayed gratification will help combat this syndrome. It will prevent the “buy now, pay later” mentality that could dip them into keeping a lifestyle of credit. Credit is good when it is used as leverage to help improve our asset base which will in turn increase our income. It shouldn’t be used to increase expenses in any way. As much as you can, stress the notion that waiting pays off.

For instance, you can decide to bake bread or cake at home with all the ingredients that will make it exciting for your child; then microwave one that was bought from a store that has been at home. Even though the homemade one took longer, it will taste better. That might help to convey the message to your child. You also need to model the fact that waiting pays. It is more important than talking about it and will bring results faster. Let them see that you don’t get all you need and want immediately you desire it. Help them see the process you go through to get these things done. As an adult, have you learnt to wait? If your answer is no, you need to start modelling it intentionally. Good things come to those who wait. It sure does!

– Gbonjubola Sanni