Patience is something I have always struggled with. Should a decision need to be made I’ve always assessed my choices quickly, made a decision, then accepted the choice I’ve made and moved on. I’ve rarely made uninformed decisions, I’ve just been impatient when needed to make a decision. My family and friends can attest to this.
At this time of my life, I’m learning patience as I traverse this new territory, this new journey of life as an author, speaker, and possibly a student success coach. I’m in the midst of transformation and during my daily meditations I spend time reinforcing the foundations behind patience as the universe unfolds its plan for my intentions.
I’ve found that fostering patience is a valuable skill that can be developed with practice. Here are some strategies to cultivate patience:
1. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness meditation can help you become more aware of your thoughts and emotions, allowing you to observe them without judgment. This awareness can help you respond to situations with greater patience.
2. Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that things may not always go as planned and that delays and setbacks are a natural part of life. Adjust your expectations accordingly to reduce frustration when things don't happen as quickly as you'd like.
3. Take Deep Breaths: When you feel yourself becoming impatient, pause and take several deep breaths. This can help calm your mind and body, allowing you to respond more calmly to the situation.
4. Practice Empathy: Recognize that everyone has their own challenges and limitations, which can help you be more patient and compassionate.
5. Focus on the Present Moment: Instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, focus on the present moment. Pay attention to what's happening right now and practice acceptance of the current situation.
6. Cultivate Gratitude: Take time to appreciate the things you have and the progress you've made. Cultivating a sense of gratitude can help you maintain a positive outlook, even in challenging situations.
7. Practice Patience Daily: Like any skill, patience improves with practice. Look for opportunities in your daily life to practice patience, whether it's waiting in line, dealing with traffic, or working through a difficult task.
I’m learning that by incorporating these strategies into my daily life, I am cultivating greater patience and resilience in the face of the change I’ve committed myself to experience.
