Why Patience Is an Important Part of Self-Care and Mental Health

If there’s one thing I wish I could do more of every day, it’s practice more patience. I know it sounds a little off topic, but for me, the key to doing the things you enjoy every day starts with self-care. You have to feel mentally capable enough to follow through with daily activities. For me, that starts with patience—patience to get through each day without losing my composure.

I wish that I had more patience with people, with situations I can’t control, and honestly, with myself. Patience is the key to better self-care. It also tremendously helps my mental health.

Recognizing My Impatience

Lately, I’ve been more impatient than usual. I’ve recognized that I’m more irritable, more vocal, and more on edge. I have a difficult time controlling my reactions when I feel overwhelmed.

A Recent Experience

I went to get blood work done the other day. I’d made an appointment, so I assumed it would be a simple in-and-out. But when I walked into the waiting room, it was flooded with people. I became overwhelmed and overstimulated very quickly, and it led to anger and frustration.

Some people were taking too long to register and sign in, so I stood behind them, mumbling and asking if they needed help. I think I even muttered, “This is ridiculous.” Looking back, I know I should’ve shown more patience. Everyone had to wait too, not just me. But in that moment, I couldn’t help but verbally express my irritability.

There was no seating, so I stood by the door waiting to be called, just watching all the patients ahead of me. I can get very vocal if people are called before me, especially if I know it should be my turn.

Being More Vocal

Being vocal about things is something new to me. Usually, I’m very quiet and shy, but lately, I’ve realized that I’m starting to care less about what other people think of me. If I’m feeling a certain way, I’ll make it known.

I think the real issue here is that people genuinely stress me out. I’ve always felt very uncomfortable and intimidated by others. I think it’s because of my sensitivity and my worries of rejection or judgment. Truthfully, I sometimes say that I don’t like people, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. I respect everyone I come across unless they give me a reason to react. I’ve always just wanted to be likeable and accepted. It all really stems from my mind and my insecurities.

I’ve noticed that when I get angry at others, it’s because I have underlying issues with my self-esteem and confidence. At the end of the day, it isn’t the people—it’s the way I treat myself.

What I Want for Myself

I don’t want to be angry and frustrated every time I leave the house. I don’t want every outing to feel like something I have to brace myself for. The thing I want most is to feel more comfortable going places without feeling so anxious, irritable, or overwhelmed.

I want to go to the park for a walk, go out to eat, and spend time with friends—typical everyday activities that I want to enjoy. I want to do normal things without feeling so on edge the entire time.

Why Patience Matters

That’s why I keep thinking about patience. I think having more of it would help me do the things I want to do without feeling like I’m constantly ready to snap. It would help me breathe before I react. It would help me slow down before frustration takes over.

To me, patience is a virtue. It isn’t about pretending to be fine when I’m not. It isn’t about forcing myself to be agreeable. It’s about making space between what I feel and how I respond.

I know I’m not going to get it right every time. There will still be long waits, loud places, rude people, and moments that push me over the edge. But I’m realizing that patience isn’t just something I need for other people. It’s something I need for myself too.

And right now, I think that’s something I need more of.

What’s one area of your life where a little more patience could bring you more peace?

“Patience is not the ability to wait, but the ability to keep a good attitude while waiting.” — Joyce Meyer

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