Written by: Leticia DeSuze, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Yes, there’s a difference.
We, humans, are a lot of things, and impatient is one of them. When we set our eyes on something, we’re hard-wired to want it now. Not tomorrow, not next week, now. Unfortunately, this is very much imprinted in our DNA.
Consider our ancestors eons ago. If they were hungry, they’d venture out and sort it out. But the world has changed since those days.
Today, we live in a world where most of what we want is at our fingertips. We can order food at the tap of a button. No more hunting and gathering to make ends meet. The problem with that, however, is that we’re catering to human laziness. The ease with which we can get things has programmed impatience deep into our brains, so when we want something, we want it right now.
While rushing to get something you want might bring instant gratification, that’s it. You’ve got what you wanted. But is it everything you wanted? Could it have been better? Could it have been bigger? Like they say, life is about the journey – not the destination. In fact, it begs the question – is there even a destination at all?
Setting a destination means setting a finishing line. And what’s beyond that? If you really want to get not just what you want – but to get it right – then it’s time to start practicing some patience. It’s time to start treating life like the journey it is.
Here are five reasons why you should start putting the art of patience to the test, starting today.
1. Patience Reduces Stress
Wanting something that doesn’t come quickly enough can be a recipe for anxiety. But the second you accept that something will take a little longer than you’d like, negative emotions like frustration and anger will simply melt away. You’ll know it will be worth it in the long run.
2. Patience Shows Self-Control
When you force yourself to learn the art of patience, don’t be surprised if every aspect of your life changes. Something as trivial as sitting at a standstill on the highway will present no issues because you’ll know that – on the other side of traffic – something better awaits. And having gone through some discomfort will make you that much more grateful once it’s over.
3. Patience Transforms Relationships
Impatient people are notorious for being irritable, restless, and inconsiderate. However, patience forces you to think before you speak. Every relationship in your life will change, for the better, because you’ll naturally take the time to embrace others with more empathy and understanding. From personal relationships to business, patience is essential.
4. Patience Reveals New Opportunities
Rushing to meet goals with haste promises quick gratification, as I mentioned, but slowing things down will help you see things you normally wouldn’t. You’ll spot opportunities you may not have noticed before, all because you were patient enough to see them. Even though mistakes are a huge part of learning, they won’t be as costly when you take your time.
5. You’ll Build Positive Habits That Last A Lifetime
Exercising patience on the road to our goals forces us to build sustainable habits. The same habits we used to achieve our goals can be implemented into every other facet of our lives for the rest of our lives.
Honestly, I could go on all day because this has been one of my greatest personal and professional challenges. The fact that you’re still reading this means you must have some patience in you – otherwise, you wouldn’t still be with me. As a mindset and business coach, a huge part of what I do involves helping my clients slow down to enjoy the journey. Now, it’s your turn.
Leticia DeSuze, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Leticia DeSuze is a holistic mindset coach and business strategist who works with C-level executives and established entrepreneurs who desire to break the 7-figure barrier. Having coached more than 1200 senior leaders and entrepreneurs across multiple industries, Leticia believes that every problem is a mindset problem and that mindset matters most. Leticia has developed a 'laser-like ability to pierce the facades and identify the deeply engrained thought patterns that have limited her clients' potential, and identify opportunities for accelerated growth. She helps them clearly define what they want and designs the roadmap to get there - while holding them accountable. The result is a life and business they've intentionally created vs. one they've settled for.
