The secret to success

I've decided that the secret to success is delayed gratification. It may sound a little odd but everything we want is within our reach, if we are patient. When I was in high school, there were a few wealthy businessmen coming into town to meet with my dad. I asked my dad where he was going to take the businessmen for lunch. He said that they were going to Burger King because they had $.99 Whoopers. I told him that it was inappropriate to try and win over businessmen at Burger King. My dad asked, "How do you think they became wealthy? They save their money." Being a teenager, I couldn't understand the concept of saving.
Delayed gratification helps in tempering one's self. People who feel entitled are going no where. I see many people who want the newest gadget, car, home, clothes, etc. immediately. They are constantly in pursuit of the best in the moment. This pursuit will get you no where. There will always be something else to want. There will always be something new.
I work with people from a variety of economic backgrounds. It's interesting that in general, the people who make the least have the I phones and buy their lunch everyday. Those who make significantly more aren't worried about "keeping up with the Jones'." They bring their lunch, have the old cell phones, and old cars. They aren't concerned about appearances. I'm not suggesting that people shouldn't care at all about material goods. There is some fun that comes from things but I think the balance comes in patience in the pursuit.