How to Become a More Patient Person

We all know that patience is a virtue, but becoming a more patient person can seem a difficult task. Life often moves at an almost brutal pace. Our bodies and thoughts are constantly on the go. Trying to learn patience in the midst of it all requires commitment and dedication, but it can be done. The numerous benefits make the lesson one worth learning.

Instructions

• 1

  Breathe. Impatient, agitated people forget how to relax. They encounter health problems due to constant emotional stress that result in physical symptoms. Stiff necks, backs and migraine headaches can be just the tip of the iceberg. As you feel yourself clenching up in annoyance, stop what you're doing. Close your eyes and take several long, deep breaths. Deep breathing produces a healthy, calming effect to your mind and body.

• 2

  Put problems in perspective. Your problems pale in comparison to someone else's. When you get cut off in traffic, remind yourself that you are sitting in a working, comfortable automobile. You could be walking to work. When you have the flu, be thankful you aren't dealing with cancer. If you have cancer, today is a good day, because you're alive to enjoy it. No matter how large your problem, it could always be worse. Keeping negativity in check helps you learn patience by keeping your temper at bay.

• 3

  Be a tolerant person. When other people make mistakes, don't be quick to pass judgment. Your patience level drops to zero when you become angry. Remember that no one is perfect and treat others with an attitude of respect, rather than annoyance.

• 4

  Get creative. Creativity involves exercising the mind in a productive, yet non-stressful manner. Carve out some time just for you. Paint a picture or learn to cross-stitch. Do one thing you've always wanted to do, for no other reason than you've always wanted to do it. There is a 2-fold benefit. You develop patience as you learn a new task, and you reduce stress levels when you do an activity for sheer enjoyment.

• 5

  Avoid multi-tasking. When your mind goes in too many directions, you accomplish little. Frustration and impatience often surround multi-taskers like evil henchmen. Do one thing at a time. Do it well. Then move on to the next thing.

• 6

  Keep your eye on the prize. When you learn patience, you will improve your life in many ways. Better health, a more enjoyable social life, and improved family relations are just a few. Remember why you're practicing patience before flying off the handle. Dedicate yourself to the effort, and soon enough, patience will become a habit.