Practicing Patience

We get it, your roommates or family are all up in your space, you can’t leave the house, and you’re about to lose it. You’ve heard the phrase “patience is a virtue” a thousand times, but when stress levels are through the roof and tensions are running high, it’s easy to get caught up in your feelings. But until we can return to normal, practicing a little extra patience can go a long way in keeping everyone sane and happy. Here are some tips for keeping your cool.

With Your Roommates

Communication is key. This might be the most time you have ever spent together, so it’s vital that everyone understands and respects schedules and space. If working from home is causing challenges, set a schedule for quiet hours and meal times so you’re not constantly walking in on each other’s Zoom meetings. Have open discussions to define expectations for responsibilities, so nobody gets impatient about doing the cleaning or grocery shopping.

With Your SO

Relationships are hard enough, let alone during these extra-stressful times. Whether you’ve been married for 20 years or just started dating, chances are you’ve lost your cool with your SO at least once during this ordeal. If you feel like you’re getting in each other’s way more than often, spend some time apart in different rooms (or different corners) and do your own thing. Facetime with friends, binge your guilty pleasure shows, get some work done. Then, schedule a date night: order (or cook!) your favorite food, watch a movie together, and take a moment to appreciate that extra time you’re getting to spend with each other right now.

With your kids

Without school, friends and playgrounds, your kids are probably working your last nerve. Whether you have toddlers or teens, routine is important for everyone’s sanity, so make a schedule that involves learning activities, playtime, and some type of socializing. When the impending tantrums or arguments start, take deep breaths and try to remember that they’re feeling the same way you are. Give them space to vent some of that pent-up energy and angst, but it’s important to remain positive and hopeful, and be there for them, too.

With Your Coworkers

Lagging internet, the “sorry, forgot I was on mute,” and constant virtual meetings can do a number on your patience. You may need to adjust your usual workflow, as social distancing can make collaboration more difficult, and daily tasks may take more time to do remotely. To minimize the chance of an outburst, take deep breaths before your meetings, and keep the lines of communication open with your team. Ask for more time if you need it, and be understanding when other team members need an extra day to complete their tasks. 

Have Patience With Yourself

We’re dealing with more stress and fewer outlets for that stress right now, so practicing some patience with your own feelings is just as important. A lot of the frustration that you feel is actually manageable, and avoidable! Patience is a skill you can work on developing over time, and now is a great time to start.

• Meditate. Starting a regular meditation practice is one of the most effective ways to learn to be more patient. Not only is it helpful for combating anxiety and stress, but breathing exercises have also been shown to boost immunity! Start with shorter meditations and work your way up to longer sessions.
• Focus on the bigger picture. When frustration over little things starts to creep up, try to remember the more important reason for what’s happening. For example, remember that your packages are taking longer to be delivered because companies are taking extra precautions to keep workers (and in turn, you!) safe during a scary time. This type of mindful thinking creates more space for patience and gratitude.
• Massage to build patience. Massage can help alleviate the tension that often accompanies frustration, plus it builds patience and self-love. You can try self-massage, starting with small areas where you might hold your tension, like the neck, jaw, or shoulders. Or, if you need a longer, more therapeutic break, book an in-home Soothe massage. Remember to breathe and relax!