We are the most impatient when we are thinking of ourselves. We obsessively click the “skip ad button” on the YouTube video even though it’s a 5-second ad and you are waiting the 5 seconds no matter what. SECONDS?!
Patience requires purpose.
Why do you do what you do?
Why are you in that relationship?
Why are you pursuing those educational and professional goals?
If your goals are low then you’re openness to shortcuts and giving up will continue to widen. Consider if the goal in your life is worth the hard work and wait. If not then it might not be a thing worth pursuing.
Patience requires perspective.
When I consider the perspective of others, I am much more patient because I see myself in their shoes.
- The bad driver that cut you off. I’ve been them.
- The person who ghosted your message. I’ve been them.
- The spouse that fails to speak your love language. I’ve been them.
- The leader who doesn’t lead intentionally. I’ve been them.
When I’m left on read or left out, I have patience with them because I have perspective.
Lastly, put others first.
The last time I waited in a physical line for an iPhone was the 7 Plus. I got in line early with a friend and was excited to have the new large phone in my possession. The few customers in front of me could not have gone any faster. If you tried to cut me in line I would have been so passive-aggressive the rest of our experience in line together. Yes, I waited a few hours to get my new device but there was enough supply to go around that morning. We were each given a ticket as soon as the selling began. That was our guarantee of an iPhone with our name on it.
We’re not Olympic athletes, others succeeding doesn’t necessarily spell our failure. Learn to celebrate others and you’ll learn another key ingredient to patience.
This week, consider forcing yourself to practice patience. Choose the longer line at the grocery store. Don’t take the toll roads home. Opt for a slower home internet speed. I’m just kidding about that last one. I wouldn’t wish that one for anyone. These little exercises will make grow your patience muscle for when you will need it most.
Purpose + Perspective + Put Others First = Patience