Patience – a word we hear often but rarely find easy. A few months ago, when I started my blog and launched my projects, I was full of energy. I had clear goals, a plan, and the firm belief that progress would come quickly. But reality looked different: things are moving forward, but much slower than I initially imagined. Along the way, I’ve realized that patience is not just a necessary companion on this journey but one of the most important lessons I’m currently learning.
How often do we feel the urge to achieve everything right away? And what happens when we realise that the journey itself is just as valuable as the destination?
The Process of Change
I’ve discovered that big changes often take much more time than initially expected. Whether it’s building a blog, planning a new project, or learning new skills – the journey is rarely linear. Instead, there are moments of stagnation, unexpected obstacles, and even times when it feels like going in circles.
But growth often happens in those moments. I’ve learned to appreciate the small steps that are often underestimated. They may not seem spectacular, but over time, they add up and lead to real progress. It’s like a tree that grows deep roots beneath the surface before it visibly reaches for the sky.
How I Practice Patience
Practicing patience hasn’t always been easy for me. There are days when I feel restless and wonder, “Why isn’t this happening faster?” Especially when filled with enthusiasm, waiting for results can be frustrating. But I’ve learned to remind myself in those moments that progress is happening – even if it’s hidden.
One personal trick that always helps me when I feel stuck: I tidy up my desk. It might sound simple, but it’s an action I can directly control. With a clean desk, I often find it easier to take the next step, and I feel like I’ve already accomplished something. That sense of having taken action makes it easier for me to tackle the next task.
Another valuable lesson I’ve learned is about taking breaks. It’s okay to do nothing. For me, that means spending a day simply reading books – whether it’s an inspiring non-fiction book or a novel that sparks my imagination. I’m fortunate to have the flexibility as a self-employed person to plan a “four-day workweek” and dedicate one day entirely to myself. But even in a 9-to-5 job, it’s possible to take intentional time for yourself. It doesn’t have to be an entire day – even two or three hours can make a huge difference. The key is giving yourself permission to pause, breathe, and recharge.
Here are a few more strategies I’ve developed to help me stay patient:
1. Set small goals: Instead of focusing solely on the big end goal, I break my projects into smaller milestones. Each milestone achieved is a reason to celebrate.
2. Document successes: My blog serves as a kind of journal where I not only share my thoughts but also track my progress. Looking back reminds me how far I’ve come.
3. Switch focus: When one area stalls, I turn to another task. Sometimes stepping away brings fresh energy and new ideas.
Challenges as Learning Moments
Practicing patience not only means accepting progress but also seeing challenges as part of the process. There are always moments when things don’t go as planned. A great example is my project Holz vor der Hütte. Initially, I naively thought it would be up and running in just three or four days. Reality, however, had other plans: unexpected challenges required adjustments, and I even had to involve other people to help implement those changes. This significantly delayed the process – and at first, I was extremely frustrated. But over time, I learned that these delays are part of any project. They showed me how important it is to stay flexible and have the right partners onboard.
Now, I understand that the time I spend building and optimizing creates the foundation for a sustainable and successful project. It’s a bit like a puzzle: at the start, the pieces are scattered everywhere, but with every step, the picture becomes clearer.
Celebrating Small Wins
Amid all the challenges and tests of patience, I’ve learned one thing: small wins are just as important as big goals. They provide energy, motivation, and a reason to keep going. Sometimes it’s as simple as the moment when a blog post is published or when a first comment appears. These moments remind me why I started and how much joy the journey itself brings.
I’ve also learned how important it is to do something kind for myself. Sometimes, I’ll play a game on my phone while enjoying a cup of tea or treat myself to a slice of cake. These little breaks are not just rewards – they’re also a way to embrace self-care and say, “You’re doing great.” Treating myself with kindness and appreciation gives me the strength to take the next steps.
Patience Brings Clarity
One of the most valuable lessons patience has taught me is clarity. When I’m not rushing from one quick fix to the next, I have time to reflect. These pauses are essential – they give me the space to ask the right questions. And I’ve learned that asking the right questions is often more important than having the immediate answers.
Patience allows me to pause and consciously reflect: “Why am I doing this? What do I really want to achieve?” This clarity is a gift that only comes when I take the time to rethink and reevaluate processes. It helps me make intentional decisions, set priorities, and focus on what truly matters.
It’s a bit like hitting the reset button for my mind. These moments of clarity not only move me forward but make the journey itself more fulfilling and meaningful.
Conclusion: The Value of Patience
Patience has taught me to appreciate the journey more than the destination. It has shown me that progress doesn’t always need to be visible to be real and that the best results often come from moments where I take the time to find clarity. Patience isn’t just a necessary burden – it’s a skill I can apply in every area of life: in my projects, my studies, and my daily routines.
How do you feel about patience? What have you learned in your life when waiting for progress? Share your thoughts in the comments or reach out to me directly – I’d love to hear your perspective!
Talk soon
Uwe
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