Many postpone joys and changes for the future, believing that everything better will begin "later." Psychologists call this the syndrome of deferred life — a state that hinders living in the here and now and leads to missed opportunities and stress.
What is the Syndrome of Deferred Life
The Syndrome of Deferred Life (SDL) is not a disease, but a set of beliefs that causes a person to constantly wait for the "right" moment for change. A person perceives their life as a preparatory stage before a future that never arrives. The concept was introduced into psychology in 1997 by Dr. Vladimir Serkin.
Causes of the Syndrome
- Childhood Conditioning — the habit of waiting for an important event: "Once you finish school," "Once you get married."
- Social Factor — the habit of postponing joys, learned from childhood from parents and older generations.
- Low Self-Esteem — doubts about oneself hinder enjoyment of the present moment.
- Professional Characteristics — representatives of creative professions and top managers often postpone joys for work goals.
- Virtual Life — retreating into the online world instead of actively participating in real life.
Consequences
People with SDL often experience regret about missed opportunities, feelings of guilt, decreased self-esteem, anxiety, and emotional burnout. In prolonged states, this can lead to depression.
How to Overcome the Syndrome of Deferred Life
- Use things "for special occasions" right now: dinnerware, bed linens, clothing.
- Regularly update your wardrobe and wear new clothes without waiting for the "right moment."
- Conduct a home inventory and get rid of unnecessary items — freeing up space lightens the soul.
- Do not deny yourself small pleasures: movies, workshops, walks.
- Make a to-do list and follow through to completion.
- Turn plans into goals and work out the steps to achieve them.
- Adopt the life motto: "Now is the time."
Applying these rules will help you live a full life without postponing joys to an uncertain future.
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