Patient

"Patience is the calm acceptance that things can happen in a different order than the one you have in mind."

― David G. Allen

April 5, 2023

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Lisa Ulshafer

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Being patient is an important characteristic that allows one to remain calm, composed and level-headed even in difficult and trying situations. It enables us to take a step back and consider all the options before taking any decision. Being patient is not only important for our own emotional and mental well-being but also for the well-being of those around us. It allows us to maintain healthy relationships and approach challenges with a positive mindset.

Here are just some of the benefits you experience when you are patient: 

• Better decision making: Patience allows you to take your time and weigh your options before making a decision, resulting in better decision making.
  
  
• Reduced stress: Being patient helps you to stay calm and relaxed in difficult situations, reducing stress and anxiety.
  
  
• Improved relationships: Patience allows you to be more understanding and empathetic towards others, improving your relationships with them.
  
  
• Increased productivity: Being patient helps you to stay focused on your goals and avoid distractions, increasing productivity.
  
  
• Better physical health: Studies have shown that being patient can improve your physical health by reducing stress and improving sleep.
  
  
• Improved mental health: Patience can also improve your mental health by reducing anxiety, increasing happiness, and improving overall well-being.
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• Increased resilience: Patience helps you to develop resilience and the ability to bounce back from setbacks, making you more adaptable and better equipped to deal with challenges.

Here are 10 strategies to become more patient:

1. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness meditation can help you become more aware of your thoughts and emotions, which in turn can help you regulate your reactions and develop patience.

2. Set realistic expectations: It’s important to set realistic expectations for yourself and others. Unrealistic expectations can lead to frustration, anger, and impatience.

3. Take breaks: If you find yourself getting frustrated or impatient, take a break. Step away from the situation, take some deep breaths, and engage in a relaxing activity, such as yoga or reading.

4. Practice gratitude: Focusing on what you are grateful for can help shift your focus away from impatience and frustration.

5. Develop empathy: Try to see the situation from the other person’s perspective. This can help you understand their actions and reduce your impatience.

6. Cultivate a positive attitude: Try to maintain a positive attitude even in difficult situations. A positive attitude can help you stay calm and patient.

7. Challenge negative thoughts: Negative thoughts can fuel impatience and frustration. Challenge these thoughts by questioning their validity and looking for evidence to support or refute them.

8. Practice deep breathing: Taking slow, deep breaths can help you calm down and reduce feelings of impatience and frustration.

9. Learn to say no: Sometimes saying no to requests or demands can help reduce stress and increase patience.

10. Practice self-care: Taking care of yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally can help you develop patience and resilience. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in regular exercise.

Becoming more patient can be a challenging process, but the benefits can improve many areas of your life, such as your mental and physical health, relationships, and career. By implementing strategies like mindfulness, reframing your thoughts, and practicing gratitude, you can cultivate patience and reap its rewards. Being patient can lead to a more peaceful and fulfilling life, and it is a valuable trait to have in a fast-paced world.