Why We Hate to Wait: The Psychology of Patience

Why does waiting feel so unbearable? What’s happening in our minds when we’re stuck in traffic, refreshing an email inbox, or counting down the days to a big event? In this episode, Professor RJ Starr explores the psychology of patience and impatience, diving into the neuroscience of dopamine and delayed gratification, the role of time perception and cognitive biases, and how modern society has reshaped our expectations for instant results. Drawing from psychological research, including Daniel Kahneman’s studies on time perception and the famous Marshmallow Test on self-control, this episode unpacks why waiting can feel like suffering—and how we can reframe it to build resilience, reduce stress, and cultivate mindfulness.

Join Professor Starr for an insightful, engaging discussion filled with real-life anecdotes, psychological theories, and practical strategies to help you navigate impatience in a fast-paced world. Learn how mindfulness, gratitude, and perspective shifts can transform the way you experience waiting, strengthening your emotional resilience and improving your daily life.

Tune in to The Psychology of Us with Professor RJ Starr for expert-level insights in a warm, accessible format. Want to share your thoughts or suggest a future episode topic? Email ProfRJStarr@outlook.com.

🎧 Listen now and discover how patience isn’t just a virtue—it’s a skill you can master.

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