<h1>Present bias causes investors to delay contributions, risking lost compound returns; start small, automate, set goals.</h1> Present bias-preferring immediate gratification over future gains-leads many investors to postpone putting money into markets, risking lost compound returns and smaller retirement or goal corpuses. Factors include preference for current consumption, uncertainty about the future, fear of short-term volatility, procrastination, and perceived lack of urgency. Delays can materially reduce long-term outcomes even with identical contributions. Practical responses are starting small (regular systematic plans), automating contributions, linking investments to concrete goals, maintaining a long-term view, using planning tools to illustrate the cost of delay, and seeking professional guidance to build disciplined investing habits.