Practicing Patience
Societal evolution has yielded rapid access to most of what one could ever dream of. Fast and friendly service is not only possible but expected. Same-day or next-day delivery is now the norm. On-demand television and smartphones have nearly automated all of our entertainment. Video calls provide direct access to anyone in the world. The way in which our culture has and continues to develop makes instant gratification a common mindset. This mindset has translated to the expectation that others will show up on demand. While it is nice to have what we want, exactly when we want, it is not always possible. Finding ways to accept the feelings that accompany not getting what is desired in the moment can be challenging. Moving past feelings such as irritation and frustration requires patience.
Patience increases one’s ability to be flexible, which is critical to overcoming obstacles. Recognizing that life happens on its terms and expectations may not always line up with reality is important. The power of patience should not be ignored as this practice yields many benefits that can improve life such as the following:
Healthy and mindful decision making
Improvements to how we treat ourselves and others
Develop effective communication
Enhanced acceptance of what we cannot change
Increased ability to move past barriers
Reposition personal outlooks
Goals can still be accomplished, and desires can be met with flexibility. When the pressure created by expectations decreases, our connections to others are allowed to be strengthened when patience is displayed. Eliminating commotion resulting from the need for instant gratification can prevent rushed decisions or impulsive comments. When experiencing negative emotions, it can be helpful to take a moment each day to practice patience. To extend patience to others we must be patient with ourselves. The following are a couple of ways to start this practice.
Explore your perspective
Your perspective creates your reality, which often needs to be explored. It is important to recognize your feelings as contributions to your outlook. When you have negative feelings, attempt to understand why you deem it important to have your desires at the precise moment you develop them. Attempt to consider the situation you desire from a variety of different viewpoints. After exploring your perspective, decide if you can find a way to think about it otherwise. Keep in mind that you control your perspective and hold the ability to change it if it does not bring you joy. Self-control is key to using personal power to shift your view and practice patience, for the only thing you can truly control is yourself.
Give yourself and others grace
Practicing patience is the ultimate cultivator of grace, which can ease the tension when things don’t materialize exactly as expected. This also increases the ability to be easy on self and others. It is okay to give yourself the approval to accept things outside of your control. When things do not go as expected, even when in your control, allow yourself to let go and recalibrate. Deep breathing can help if you find this difficult. Once you recenter, assess what is in your control then decide how you want to move forward. Grace allows us to quickly receive what is before us while appreciating the positive in all things. Grace allows you to treat yourself and others with compassion.