Five Ways to Restore Your Patience
1) St. Augustine said, “patience is the companion of wisdom.” All of us are impatient at times and wish other people could move at our speed. In healthcare, it is so important to remember to “Be Present” and in the moment with people. The greatest gift we can give others is our ability and desire to listen—reallylisten to them. Jack Canfield, co-author of Chicken Soup for the Soul says, “Every human being walks around with an invisible sign on their forehead that says, APPRECIATE ME.” Patience = Kindness. Can you remember a time when someone was patient with you, and it meant the world to you at that moment? Giving others grace is a gift that gives to both the giver and receiver.
2) Be respectful of others. Everyone deserves your respect. We live in a polarized world right now, and showing respect for others is so important. Even though you may not agree with them, everyone has the right to their opinions and attitudes. Try to be tolerant and patient, and use your interactions with those people to strengthen YOUR “patience” muscle. There are many opportunities each day to become kinder and more tolerant. John Wooden, a famous basketball coach says, “Don’t let what you cannot do interfere with what you CAN do.”
3) Frustration kills kindness. Practice being kind. The Dalai Lama says, “My religion is Kindness.”Isn’t that a great mantra? Just being mindful of this new practice will shift your disposition. Don’t share your frustration with others. Have a chat with yourself and spin your attitude toward kindness and understanding for the other person!
4) It is easy to be patient when all is going well for you. The real measure of our character is showing patience and being understanding of others when things aren’t so perfect. A great quote I heard in a movie once was from a mentor to his mentee: “The ones that are the hardest to love are the ones who need love the most.” Practice forgiveness and watch your relationships and interactions with others change. Exchange kindness when someone is rude or cuts you off. You will feel better about yourself regardless of what the other person does.
5) Be positive! Tell yourself this person who is irritating you may be really struggling with a life trauma. Everyone has a story. You may be the only person who comes along and is a bright spot in their dark day. This benefits you by bringing your positive attitude to the situation. It stimulates positive energy and emotions for you. Oxytocin is produced by our bodies when we extend kindness and goodness to others. Being positive in a negative moment is a sign of real power. “The capacity to care is the thing which gives life its deepest significance.” –Pablo Casals