How often do we think of something we’d like to get and wonder how quickly we can lay hands on it? Is it better to be able to get it right away or does the bit of a wait before something arrives add to the excitement?

Sometimes slowing down and having to wait for something desired is better than being able to get it right away. According to University of Wisconsin psychologist, Shilagh A. Mirgain, it can actually enhance the experience. “When you’re excited about something and anticipating it, some researchers feel that the overall experience is enhanced due to this anticipation.” (from https://melmagazine.com/en-us/story/the-psychological-effect-of-the-countdown-clock)

From my own experience, there have been times when waiting for the package, watching the mail or front porch, is the exciting part. Sometimes, once it arrives, the excitement is past, but if it’s something I have really wanted or something purchased for someone else, the arrival of the item is wonderful. The wait does enhance its eventual arrival and the build up to presenting it.

Understandably, there are times when we need what we are looking for right away - if we’ve waited too long to do our shopping or found out last minute that we needed to make that purchase. When it comes to ordering books, Canterbury Book Store does its best to have a good selection on hand, and we do our best to get them in as quickly as possible for customers.

Being a small, independent bookstore makes it difficult to always have what everyone wants. Those who specifically check with us for a book, knowing it will take longer if we have to order it, do much to support the store and are certainly appreciated. And now we can say that unless stress is involved, that wait can enhance their enjoyment of their book.

All in all, it makes you wonder if slowing down, waiting, anticipating can bring us more enjoyment in life, overall…

I think so.