On “Psychology Behind the Headlines,” hosts Jessica Reyes, Patricia Wu, and guest therapist Ryan Heapy discuss a why impatience grows as we get closer to a goal or event.
The thrill of anticipation
Positive events can fuel impatience too! Our desire for a good outcome can make the final stretch of waiting difficult.
Closure is key
According to the study, our brains crave closure. The nearer the end of a wait, the stronger the desire to complete the task.
Not all waits are equal
We don’t feel the same impatience when anticipating something less desirable, like a deadline or test.