Get inspired: Patience, the biggest virtue in life

It has never been easy to be patient, but it’s probably harder now than at any time in history. In a world in which messages can be sent across the world instantly, in which seemingly everything is available for immediate purchase with a few clicks of the mouse, it’s hard not to always expect instant gratification. But patience remains a valuable tool in life.

Saturday, June 06, 2009

It has never been easy to be patient, but it’s probably harder now than at any time in history. In a world in which messages can be sent across the world instantly, in which seemingly everything is available for immediate purchase with a few clicks of the mouse, it’s hard not to always expect instant gratification. But patience remains a valuable tool in life.

We don’t always get instant gratification, and some of the best things in life require years of hard work and waiting. Fortunately, patience is a virtue that can be cultivated and nurtured. Here are some ways, which can help us control our impatience.

We need to, first of all figure out why we are in such a rush, especially in situations when we’re on a tight schedule. All we need is the ability to properly delegate responsibilities, and there will be no rush.

Impatience can be eliminated when we outline the triggers that often make us lose patience because; at the core of most triggers is a reality that we have a hard time accepting.

We also need to overcome bouts of impatience
 
In the long run, developing patience requires a change in your attitude about life, but you can immediately make progress by learning to relax whenever you feel impatient.

Let go if you can’t do anything about the impatience trigger
 
If there isn’t anything that you can do to resolve whatever has triggered your impatience, just let it go. Easier said than done, yes, but it’s possible, and it’s the only healthy thing to do.

Remind yourself that things take time
 
People who are impatient are people who insist on getting things done now and don’t like to waste time. However, some things just can’t be rushed.

Expect the unexpected
 
Yes, you have plans, but things don’t always work out as planned. Accept the twist and turns in life gracefully. Keep your expectations realistic. This applies not only to circumstances, but also the behavior of those around you.

Remember what matters
 
Not focusing on what matters most in this life fuels impatience. Move the world toward peace by being kind, generous in forgiveness of others, being grateful for what is, and taking full advantage of what matters most.

When other less important things fuel our impatience, taking time to remember any one of these items reduces our tendency to want something different right now.

Ends