18-Sep-2011

Shift Down a Gear

The Art of Patience

You’re standing in line at the bank, the grocery store, or on hold on the phone—your feet start to tap and your blood pressure rises. There’s so much to do and so little time—at least that’s what’s going through your mind. But, has time really sped up or is it your expectation of how quickly things should happen that’s the problem? Is it really the pace of life or the whirring of your brain, trying to keep up with the zillion tasks and obligations on your plate?

What if those moments of waiting, those moments when you are forced to stop and stand still, are not an irritation, but an opportunity? What if it’s a perfect moment to take a few deep breaths, relax your body, look around and be grateful, be joyful and appreciate the wonder of the moment. Patience is an art and you have to practice it to get better. Start with small windows of time to consciously slow down, let up on the gas, take in the view—it’s a beautiful world out there!

Recommended: The Power of Patience: How to Slow the Rush and Enjoy More Happiness, Success, and Peace of Mind Every Day by M.J. Ryan