Does it therefore mean that the outcome of an investment can be determined in advance when we delay enjoyment/gratification?
The question is, does delaying gratification always result in better investment returns? The answer is no. Sometimes, we might be better off indulging in instant gratification. Sometimes, we might be better off putting things off for a bit. But when we can enjoy delayed gratification, it often results in long-term gains for us. However, I guess the real lesson here is to know when you're ready to pamper yourself, as well as how to manage that gratification once it arrives!
The best thing about investing is that, in the long run, it usually works. In other words, you can put your money aside and not worry about it for a while, and when you are ready to reap the rewards of your investment, they will be there waiting for you. Well, whether the reward is in the form of interest payments or a return on capital depends on how you choose to invest.