Patience is a Virtue

Children have a need for instant gratification; they want it, and they want it now! On the other hand, adults have to learn to delay this need for gratification; you do not get what you want or expect, unless you are patient.

An amateur triathlete suspends his plans for racing Ironman triathlons, for leading neophytes in swim training. This same person runs alongside a struggling and injured training partner, in a marathon. These two deeds require that you draw upon your patience. You may compromise your own personal timing, yet you may experience the deep-seated satisfaction that comes with assisting somebody, and sharing in their celebration of personal achievement.

Waiting for the results of an examination; waiting for your medical tests result; waiting in queues; giving a stranger directions; giving instructions to a new staff – moments where your patience may be exercised.

Patience is more than just waiting for others. It is a personal value that is associated with endurance (in the Values Grid). Endurance involves loyalty and patience, and it is about building relationships and service.

Being patient with clients, who have their preferences and prejudices, means holding back your judgments and hearing them out first. It is about how you approach the matter, without sounding too smart or condescending. Patience is about pacing yourself to the customers, moving at their pace first, and then leading them to more useful outcomes.

The language of intent with patience is: ‘Continue it…so…’ So, organizing and leading weekly swim, run and riding sessions involve patience, and supporting values. Let’s go the full distance with our patience!

Endurance, patience and loyalty are covered in the book ‘Values Grid: Compelling Leadership Values’ by Gary Yardley, Jan Kelly and Sally Rundle. This book is available from PIPS Pty Ltd.