The word patience is derived from the Latin word pati which means to suffer, to endure, to bear. Patience is a difficult, painful, STRUGGLE for many people. It’s not always easy to endure long waiting periods, delays, and simple frustrations without becoming disturbed or anxious. Having patience requires self-regulating your feelings and reactions when confronted with adversity or complex situations. 

Patience isn’t a one size fits all virtue. Personally, I find myself having more patience with more significant, complex challenges, whereas I at times get easily frustrated while waiting at a red light for too long or if my computer won’t load fast enough. I find myself having more patience for strangers, maybe out of empathy or not understanding what they’re going through, than I do with my own family members sometimes. For others, the exact opposite is true. Whatever scenario, or whoever, is most conducive to your lack of patience, the source of this emotion is the fact there is a perceived waiting time between you and something you desire or NEED. 

Nothing worthwhile is ever easy, and patience is no different. Thanks to technology, we live in a world of instant gratification. We can practically consume, acquire, and experience ANYTHING we want, whenever we want. BUT . . . this doesn’t mean that patience isn’t necessary anymore. We’re almost accustomed to being impatient now, which isn’t setting up anyone for success and happiness in life. Everyone can work to generate MORE patience. Developing patience is like developing any other skill, it can be learned! 

Quote: “Patience is power. Patience is not an absence of action; rather it is "timing". It waits on the right time to act, for the right principles and in the right way.” ― Fulton J. Sheen

Patience is power. I love it. Training yourself to have a neutral reaction when faced with any challenge, rather than resisting, is essential. Accept the given situation for what it is. Trusting that whatever you are longing for may not be immediately available, but in time, will be, is paramount.

What's the purpose of nurturing patience in yourself? HAPPINESS, AKA, less stress, less wasted time, better relationships, more success. When you practice patience you don't get as angry, stressed or overwhelmed. You are more in control of your reactions and feelings, and in a better position to deal with tricky circumstances. When you're patient, you take the time to evaluate the situation, see the big picture, and weigh the pros and cons. You become, by default, more understanding and empathic with others. Patience is an invaluable character trait to develop. Some mistake patience, like kindness, for weakness, however it is an active, resolute and essential form of self-discipline.

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