Patience is one key to a success and happiness.
Much of our unhappiness comes from impatience. We are impatient in the line in the supermarket and feel stressed because we just want to get home. Or we're impatient with another person in a conversation, constantly interrupting them.
Here's what patience enables you to do:
- You're able to withstand silence. That's really helpful in conversations and negotiations. Just wait for the other party to continue talking.
- You're not stressing yourself or others when things take longer than planned.
- You work hard on your goals, but are patient with the results.
So how can we cultivate patience?
As always, it's a matter of practice, and mindfulness helps you. The next time you notice you're getting stressed, reflect on whether this comes from a place of impatience.
“Patience attracts happiness; it brings near that which is far.” — Swahili Proverb
Reading Recommendations
The Wisdom of Waiting - Mindful
“So much of our existence involves waiting; you’d think we’d be good at it by now. There are rooms, cues, and sidewalk benches to waylay us until the main event begins—until we get called into the doctor’s office, reach the grocery store checkout, or the next bus arrives. Waiting is a cultural institution.”
The Psychology of Waiting: 8 Factors that Make the Wait Seem Longer
“I’m a very impatient person, and standing in a slow-moving line drives me crazy. So, I set out to understand the psychology behind my frustration.”
Understanding Cognitive Bias in Product Design, the Good and Bad
“Cognitive biases are patterns of thinking that result from the mental shortcuts we take in order to process the millions of pieces of information bombarding us daily. By harnessing the power of cognitive biases, designers can create more intuitive products that meet users’ needs.”
Weekly Mindfulness Practice
Sit upright.
Imagine a steady stream of warm, liquid sunlight passing from the top of your head through your body.
It fills your whole body over 2-3 minutes, starting with your feet. Then it fills your legs, lower body, upper body, arms, and head.
The liquid sunlight feels warm and releases all tensions.
When your body is filled, enjoy the feeling for a few moments before finishing the exercise.
End Note
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Have a great week
Simon
PS: What do you think about this? Please hit reply and let me know. I’m curious!