The marshmallow test illustrates how delayed gratification correlates with important life outcomes such as academic performance, indicating a relationship between willpower and motivation. Recent variations of the test reveal that children's willingness to wait for a second marshmallow increases when they are informed another child might also benefit from their patience. This suggests that motivation can be amplified by empathy or the desire to avoid disappointing others, as children feel a connection to another's potential outcome. The implications extend beyond childhood, hinting at societal divisions where individuals may no longer see others as similar. The analysis raises questions about how this perceived disconnection influences collective cooperation and shared interests in society, emphasizing the necessity for strategies to foster understanding and empathy across differing groups.