The Immediate

Western civilization, especially the United States, is an immediate culture. Since WWII, we have wanted things faster and better (and cheaper). If we’re not satisfied with the immediate, then we’ll move on without waiting to see if the intended results came in just a few minutes, days or hours – within a respectable time period. Instead, our society increasingly wants things now – news reports, weather updates, weight loss, health wellness, financial accumulation, home improvements, marital bliss, political change, etc.

This trend is extremely disturbing because the chase for the immediate will usually lead to frustration and dissatisfaction with the present and even with the eventual results, all because it didn’t happen right away.

Good doesn’t have to be immediate. Patience is often rewarded with great results. Slowing down life is much needed in our day and age – we are too much in a hurry and it is usually because of our desire for the immediate.

Let me challenge you to focus on the pursuit of excellence even if, as it usually does, require time and perseverance. Persistence is a good trait (but not stubbornness) in the hunt for wonderful outcomes. The immediate is tyrannical – it insists on getting its own way. Do not be ruled by the immediate.

Lead On!

Steve