Big Think I study patience in a lab. Here’s what I’ve found.
Nov 19, 2025
Explore the rising tide of impatience driven by our instant gratification culture. Discover how smartphones shape our expectations and the mismatch they create with our natural human responses. Learn why patience is not just a virtue, but a strength that fuels goal pursuit and satisfaction. Uncover fascinating findings on how cultivating patience can help us endure challenges and thrive despite life's obstacles.
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Technology Alters Expectation Speed
- Our technologies have accelerated expectations for instant responsiveness in life and relationships.
- Sarah Schnitker says this creates a mismatch because people and bodies can't react as fast as smartphones.
Delayed Texts Feel Like Social Threats
- Young people often read delayed texts as a personal slight and worry something is wrong.
- Schnitker uses this behavior to illustrate how instant responsiveness now feels required.
Patience Bridges Expectation And Reality
- Patience bridges the gap between our quick expectations and slower human realities.
- Schnitker frames patience as a virtue that helps people wait calmly and adapt to obstacles.