P is for Patience

P is for Patience.

We see the lack of it everyday-the angry person in the check-out line, road rage, the ATM won't work, a parent loosing control their with a child, etc.  

 I have been patiently waiting for the Fiddlehead ferns to unfurl. 

Then we see how bad tempers and behavior can enable the

squeaky wheels getting their grease, first. 

"According to a 2007 study by Fuller Theological Seminary professor Sarah A. Schnitker and UC Davis psychology professor Robert Emmons, patient people tend to experience less depression and negative emotions, perhaps because they can cope better with upsetting or stressful situations. They also rate themselves as more mindful and feel more gratitude, more connection to mankind and to the universe, and a greater sense of abundance." 

Are patient people happier? 

Other studies suggest yes-because patient people still have hope!

We all can lose our patience-but practicing gratitude, being mindful when you notice your mood change and start to feel angry-take a deep breath.  Try to calm down-one article I read said, 

 "Is this worth a heart attack?"  No, so adjust your feelings to the situation. 

You can try to look at the world with different eyes. Maybe this person is sick or having a bad day, or maybe you are wasting time focusing on the late person, the disgruntled person in line.  Those 15-20 minutes can be best spent elsewhere. 

I know easier said than done, but: 

Patient people are more likely to achieve their goals! 

"According to Schnitker’s analysis, that greater satisfaction with achieving their goals explained why these patient achievers were more content with their lives as a whole."