Which of these actions is an example of practicing delayed gratification rather than acting on an impulse a. spending extra time practicing your tennis swing to prepare for a match b. drinking a beer at a party to impress some older friends c. ordering a salad instead of a burger at lunch d. staying up late to watch a new tv show instead of getting enough sleep

The correct answer is: C. Ordering a salad instead of a burger at lunch

From the options listed above, ordering a salad instead of a burger at lunch, is the best example of practicing delayed gratification rather than acting on an impulse. When you crave a burger (an unhealthier food choice), but order a salad instead (a less palatable, yet much healthier food choice), you are delaying gratification you would obtain from a burger, and showing restraint by not acting on your impulse to eat a burger. Restraint and impulse control indicate maturity, emotional stability and overall better life outcomes, compared to acting impulsively and opting for immediate gratification.