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Why You Keep Saving Your Life for Later, According to Psychology

Experts say many people delay joy because the brain gets hooked on wanting, planning, and chasing instead of actually savoring life.

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I don’t know what social conditioning led us here, but I’ve noticed an unhealthy pattern in myself and many other people today: We’re too afraid to truly live—not just get through each day—in the moment and instead choose to “save” life for later. 

“I’ll finally travel when I’m more financially secure.” “I’ll move to my dream town when I’m more successful.” “I’ll prioritize my hobbies and passions when I’m older.” “I’ll light the taper candles and make the fancy cheese plate when I have company.”

These are all things I tell myself on the regular.

But why? Why do we delay our own enjoyment? Why must we earn happiness like it isn’t our birthright?

Why People ‘Save’ Their Life for Later

Personally, I can admit my tendency comes from a lack mentality. I don’t want to burn my way through all my favorite candles too soon or dip into my savings for a much-needed getaway. And of course, in many ways, that’s valid. I think there’s a healthy balance between splurging every single day and depriving yourself of pleasure.

However,........

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