Abstract: As an important component of self-regulation, the concept of vocational delay of gratification (VDOG) refers to the choice tendency to overcome the temptation of immediate gratification impulse in workplace to get higher career achievement and long-term career goals. VDOG provides a new perspective to explain career development. Foreign studies generally examine the factors related to VDOG as one dimension of work ethic, while in contemporary China, VDOG develops as a unique construct of organizational behavior. Although researchers, both at home and abroad, have explored some antecedents and consequences of VDOG based on individual, organizational and social level, the existing studies have not explored the topic thoroughly. Future research should indigenize the concept of VDOG, focus on concept development of VDOG, improve the measurement of VDOG, and do longitudinal research on VDOG’s mechanisms on individual’s career success.

Key words: vocational delay of gratification, immediate gratification, delay of gratification