Enjoy the Process: Why Anticipation and the Journey Matter More Than the End Goal

You’ve counted the days to this moment—a first date, a big game, the last day of school. The buzz of anticipation floats in your stomach, making your hands fidget and your thoughts spark off in a hundred directions. When the moment finally arrives, it rushes past—fun, sure, but over quickly. Later, you realize the waiting, the build-up, and even the planning were an electric mix all their own.

On your walk home, the world feels softer. You remember how nice it was just imagining the possibilities, chatting with friends about what might happen, savoring snacks while you waited. Research on happiness confirms what you’ve found: anticipation triggers more positive emotions and a wider sense of possibility than the achievement itself.

Learning to enjoy the space before the reward means you get two rewards for the price of one—and prevent the empty letdown that comes from always chasing the next thing, never enjoying the ride.

This week, whenever you’re waiting for something you want, intentionally notice how you feel and let the anticipation be part of the fun. Instead of rushing, pause and enjoy that extra moment. Then, after you reach the end—big or small—think about which part felt more interesting, and jot down your thoughts. Keep this up and you’ll find satisfaction isn’t just about finishing, but about savoring every moment leading up to the goal.