Do you wish you were more patient? Do you lose your cool way to often? It’s safe to say patience is something we all can work on.
It’s very easy to assume that people are naturally patient. That they were simply born with the ability to wait for the right moment, or the capacity to ride the tough wave out. But the truth is, patience is something that needs to be cultivated and developed.
A few months ago I was with my friend in LA when I began complaining about the crazy amount of traffic that lay before us. “This sucks, I wish we could just be home.” She looked at me, smiled, and said “My mum always told me to use traffic as a way to practice patience.”
What she said didn’t make the traffic go any faster and only slightly improved my mood, but it did leave a lasting impact on me. I still get frustrated when cars come to a stand still but I am often reminded that were many ways to practice our patience.
I’ll be the first to admit that I’m at times fairly impatient. I’m often quick to lash out of brother for not understanding a concept, quick to get at my sister for not listening, and in the success world it gets even worse. I often find myself frustrated when I don’t see results right away. I’m sure you can relate.
I’m not particularly proud of these facts but I also realize that is an area that I need to work on. You can work with awareness, you can’t work with denial.
How can you improve your patience?
Accept Frustration
We all get frustrated from time to time. Whether it be waiting in traffic or while having a conversation with a friend or spouse. It does no good to pretend our frustration doesn’t exist.
Accept that at times you’re going to be upset. Instead of letting your frustration control you however, become aware of your feelings and let them pass.
By accepting your frustration you acknowledge that you aren’t perfect. Because perfection doesn’t exist. Don’t beat yourself up for being frustrated, it’s only part of being human.
Being frustrated isn’t a sin, it’s simply another time to practice being a more patient loving individual.
Practicing Patience
There are plenty of opportunities throughout the day for you to practice patience. Here are just a few:
Traffic: Instead of throwing your hands in the air with anger, take a moment to appreciate the current moment. Slow down and realize how blessed you are. While being stuck in traffic isn’t ideal, it certainly isn’t the worst place in the world to be.
In line: Whether it be in line at the postal service or waiting to be seated for dinner take a moment to people watch or just smile at those around you. Prepare yourself for whatever activity it is you’re waiting for. If you’re in line to see a movie remind yourself how excited you are to see the film. If you’re sending a letter, think of how happy the person receiving the letter will be.
Waiting For A Meal: Whenever you go out to eat don’t worry about when your meal arrives. If it takes a little bit longer than usual that’s OK. Use the time to catch up with the people you are eating with.
With Friends And Family: I tend to get frustrated with my brother and sister. When they don’t do exactly what I want I tend to lash out. This is party due to me being the oldest in the family, but at the same time I know I can’t control what my siblings do.
Whenever you are frustrated with a friend or spouse try to see the world from their point of view. Very often after you do this you see that your anger isn’t warranted.
Wait For Success: It is likely you have some goal you’re working towards, and in an age of instant gratification you probably want it now. Instead of wanting everything right this very moment enjoy the steps you’re taking to reach your goals. The journey is where the rewards lie.
Commit to working on your patience each day and the results will soon follow.
Make Things Right
Whenever I lose my cool I often feel quite poorly afterwards. It’s no fun getting angry when in the long run it rarely matters.
If you become upset with yourself or a friend, don’t be afraid to apologize or forgive. Put your ego aside and make things right. You know when you’re in the wrong.
Becoming Patient
The best way to become a more patient person is to well, practice patience. There are hundreds of ways to practice each and every day.
Stuck in traffic? Breathe deeply. Frustrated with a colleague? Take a moment to better understand their point of view. It’s not always easy, and sometimes things may get heated but as they say, practice does make perfect.
It’s inevitable that you’ll lose your cool from time to time. But the more you practice patience the less frequently outbursts will occur.
I certainly don’t claim to be the most patient person in the world and I know I have a ways to go. But I do know that the path of becoming a patient and more loving individual is one with great rewards.
How do you work on becoming more patient? What areas can you working t improve? Please share in the comments. I’ll wait. 
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Great quote from a book that I read. I don't remember the name, though. Just a paraphrase: "While it was my turn in line, the lady said: "Sorry to have kept you waiting!" I responded: "I wasn't waiting, I was just enjoying the experience of everything around me". So cheesy...so cliche. But it does work in helping you cultivate patience if you think about it and apply it ;)
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