Patience is a quality that is valuable in a society that's driven by the "got to have it now and fast" philosophy. The world today makes it easy — almost too easy — to have practically whatever you want, whenever you want. The thing is, life doesn't always work that way. There's always some factors that will be completely out of your control, making the thing you want more difficult to get.
This causes many people to become impatient and frustrated over things that don't even matter. We probably all know someone who loses their mind when even one small detail is out of place. Whenever someone comments on this person's impatience, the impatient person usually says something like "patience is a virtue," then continues on their erratic anger-fest.
Let's break down what this proverb means:
Patience: The capacity to accept or tolerate delay, trouble, or suffering without getting angry or upset
Virtue: Behavior showing high moral standards; a beneficial quality or power of a thing
Meaning: It is a good thing to be able to tolerate a long wait or frustrating situation.
The problem is with the phrase "to be able to." So many people view the virtue of patience as a genetic trait – you were either born with it and can utilize it, or you weren't born with it and will never have it. To them, this proverb takes a new meaning: "It is a good thing to be able to tolerate a long wait or frustrating situation, but that's not my personality, so I will never be a patient person."
Now, "patience is a virtue" is no longer a proverb to live by, strive for, and practice, but rather an excuse to toss around to validate your anger. I don't think that anyone can be too set in their ways to not practice patience. It is not something that you have or don't have either; it is a thing that you nurture and grows by building your temperament around it. Instead of getting mad at the barista for making your drink wrong, express empathy and understanding. Instead of being annoyed at getting stuck in a traffic jam, use your time in a constructive way.
You will backslide, and it won't be easy, but it'll be worth it. I used to be a lot more impatient than I am now, but I came to realize that it's ridiculous to lose my cool over things that don't matter. In perhaps one of the best compliments I've ever received, my mom once commented that I am the most patient and easy-going person she knows. I like being the relaxed person who's easy to get along with. Instead of feeling bound by tension and stress, I feel carefree and all-around happier. I encourage you to stop throwing around patience as an excuse and start adopting it into your lifestyle. You, and those around you, will certainly see the difference.
