You want to know why some people lose weight while others continue to tip the scales a little higher every year? What about the reasoning behind why certain great ideas turn into millionaire business ventures while others, just as good, end up dying off before they really had a chance? Or maybe you are curious about the politics on why some people pull themselves out of lack and poverty while others wander, lost in the system, their whole lives? The answer can usually be found in each individual’s response to instant gratification.

For an entrepreneur, instant gratification is really your worst enemy. The idea that “I want it, and I want it now” is a roadblock that stands between you and long term success. Instead of giving in and allowing this desire to rule your universe, you have to be one of the few that learn how to overcome and persevere.

Let’s talk about corporate jobs, for example. Do you have any idea how many would-be entrepreneurs will spend their entire lives stuck in a windowless cubicle? More than I care to think about. The worst part, though, is that it isn’t due to a lack of intelligence, inadequate training, or defective ideas. Those countless millions will stay stuck in their dead end, thankless, nobody gives a shit job because they refuse to let go of the instant gratification of a steady paycheck.

“That’s not me,” you might be saying. “I quit my job and started my own business.” Great! Congratulations! But you still need to listen up. The battle to give in to the short term is constant and it is a demon that you have to face everyday. Whether we are talking product launches, sales pitches, or expansions, there are going to be numerous chances for you to give in to an “on the spot” deal that could have been much more profitable if given additional development.

So, how does one combat this “disease” that seems to runs rampant in our society for wanting immediate results? You have to do two things. 1) You have to keep your eyes on the big prize (long term success) and 2) you have to work your ass off. Period. No shortcuts, no freebies, no golden tickets. While this isn’t always fun, it will get you where you want to be. Just remember that the countless hours that you put in without much payoff now will usually result in big payoffs later on.

Steve Jobs once said that “Overnight success stories take a long time.” I couldn’t agree more. So, the next time you think about giving up because you and your business are getting nowhere fast, resist the urge to quit, dig in your heels, and keep going. That’s called being an entrepreneur.