Patience is a growth strategy
Patience is an essential ingredient in our life journey. It holds together our close relationships, our careers, and our becoming our best selves.
I was reminded of this truth recently as I was reviewing the growth pace of my business. I had seen an advertisement on social media for a “business accelerator” course. Fortunately, at about the same time, I came across this quote by James Clear†
“The most overlooked and underappreciated growth strategy is patience.
(More specifically, consistently producing great work over a long time horizon.)”
This growth refers to anything you’re trying to develop or become. It may be working on transforming yourself, your relationships, growing your career, or developing your business. It also applies to those things we feel we have less control over, like the growth of our children or the beautiful tree in the garden.
Patience is an important quality in effective leadership. When leaders demonstrate patience, their direct reports show increased productivity, creativity and collaborationα.
What does patience look like?
Surrendering to the flow of life.
Being in the present moment without feeling rushed.
Embracing our growth rate.
Showing up consistently no matter what.
Anticipating being in it for the long haul.
Resisting the temptation to compare our progress with that of others.
Allowing the learning to happen in its own time.
Letting go of perfection and expectations.
Celebrating the small wins (look at “the leaves and fruits of your tree”‡).
As I reflected on my progress, I saw how far I had come, how much I was enjoying the journey, and how being patient is an essential ingredient for my continued growth.
A fruit doesn’t ripen on command, nor does a rose open her petals before it’s time. Any attempt to hasten the metamorphosis of the butterfly, may risk causing harm and dysfunction to the wings. Time and patience allow the developing butterfly to emerge from the pupa with the strength and lightness to fly.
What would happen to your business or personal growth if you include patience in your “growth strategy”?
Sources:
‡ Lisa Linfield Deep Grooves-Overcoming patterns that keep you stuck
αHarvard Business Review. Becoming a more patient leader.