The definition of patience is the capacity to accept or tolerate delay, problems, or suffering without becoming annoyed or anxious. Unfortunately, it is seen less and less in our society and often in ourselves. You see, much of our world is becoming increasingly immediate. Touch screens, on demand video streaming, same day delivery. So much of our lives are filled with instant gratification that we have forgotten how to wait and just do not expect that we should have to wait.
In a study of internet users, they found people were only willing to wait 2 seconds for something to load on the internet before they abandoned it. Two Seconds! I was in the checkout line at the supermarket and I could see that the lady in front of me was getting quite agitated and I said my favorite quote aloud “what a great opportunity for me to practice my patience just in case I might need them one day.” Then I noticed her body soften, she smiled and laughs to herself and turned around to me and said, “I don’t know why I’m getting upset, I’m just going home to sit on the couch.”
Feeling annoyed or anxious is not good for our physical and mental health. It changes the physiology in our body that leads to cronic disease. It also leads to us behaving in a way that doesn’t reflect well on us or damages our relationships. Many times, our impatience is totally unnecessary and usually extremely self-centered.
Patience is an important skill, not only does it make you enjoy life more when you are not unnecessarily getting upset, but also for being successful in life. Successful relationships require patience because it shows the other person that you support and care for them. Any goal or new skill you wish to be successful in requires patience because good things will take time.
So, make this your new mantra when you notice yourself feeling impatient “What a great opportunity this is for me to practice my patience, just in case I might need them one day!” and feel how the agitation just melts away.