7 tips for being more patient

Good things come to those who wait

We live in a world that never seems to stop. With everything available at the click of a button, it’s no surprise we’ve all grown a little impatient. Dinner can be at our door in minutes, answers are a Google search away, and TV shows? Forget waiting a week - now we can binge-watch an entire series in one evening.

If you’ve found yourself getting frustrated at the smallest delays (like waiting a whole three minutes for the next tube to arrive), then don’t worry – you’re not alone. The good news is that patience can be practised. So, let’s explore how we can train ourselves to slow down and be a little more patient in our everyday lives.

1. Set realistic expectations

When you’re trying to cram a million things into your day – answering emails, attending back-to-back meetings, tackling your to-do list, and still finding time to grab a quick snack – frustration is bound to build up. Instead of running yourself ragged, try setting more achievable goals. Break your day into manageable chunks and focus on completing one task at a time.

2. Find the joy in waiting

Waiting doesn’t have to feel like a waste of time. Whether it’s for your kettle to boil or your train to show up, these little pauses can actually be a gift. Take a moment to breathe, let your thoughts drift, and see them as chances to reset or reflect. Who knows? Your next "million-pound idea" might appear while you’re staring at the arrivals board!

3. Practice delayed gratification

We’re all tempted by instant rewards, but some of the best things in life take time. Think about the satisfaction of preparing a home cooked meal or the excitement of finally buying that handbag you’ve been saving for. By resisting the urge to give in to immediate desires (or impulse buys), your future self will definitely be thanking you! And while scrolling through social media might give you a quick dopamine hit, admit it, you know you’d feel more fulfilled if you spent that time reading a book or trying a new hobby that requires a little more patience.

4. Focus on the bigger picture

When impatience sets in, step back and remind yourself of the bigger picture. What’s truly important to you? Whether it's your long-term goals, personal growth, or the relationships you value, keeping those in mind can help you be more patient in the moment. By shifting your focus from the small frustration to the broader perspective, you’ll find it easier to stay calm and avoid reacting impulsively.

5. Take a deep breath

When you’re on the verge of losing your cool (looking at you, person blocking the left side of the escalator), just pause and take a deep breath. A few deep breaths can work wonders, helping you reset your mind and respond with calm rather than irritation. Besides, charging past them will only save you a few seconds – is it really worth the stress?

6. Slow your steps with mindful walking

Ever realised you’re rushing, even when you’re not even late? Try mindful walking instead. Focus on the sound of your footsteps, notice the world around you, and let your pace guide you to a calmer mindset. It’s a simple way to bring more patience to your day.

7. Listen without interrupting

In the midst of a conversation, it’s all too easy to start thinking about what you're going to say next or jump in when you think you've heard enough. Instead, give them your full attention, and allow them the time to express themselves fully. Not only will this strengthen your connection, but you’ll also find that it helps you be more patient with others, and with yourself.

Embrace the pause

So, go on, give patience a go. Whether you're waiting for the traffic lights to turn green, for your computer to update, or for that parcel to finally arrive – take this as an opportunity to practice patience and try a more mindful approach to living. Remember, not everything has to happen in an instant. Keep these tips in mind, and embrace the art of waiting.