“Are We There Yet?” How to Manage Impatience in Our Daily Lives

Americans are a famously impatient people—young or old. Because achievement is so recognized and rewarded, many of us have become addicted to fast accomplishment and quick wins. We want to gain wealth or lose weight in 30 days. We press for change—faster, better, sooner—especially now, as we yearn to get past Covid and get back to normal life that feels like it’s taken too long. But impatience can often compound emotional stress and anxiety, impeding clear thinking and the resolution of tough problems. In today’s episode, psychologist, author and thought leader Dr. Andrea Gould-Marks talks not only about the virtues of patience, but how to cultivate the practical skills of patience-building. Andrea is the co-author of a series of short, use-friendly booklets she calls “Relief-lets”—guides designed to provide soothing guidance during these times of turmoil. In her newly published “Patience and Possibility,” she provides insights into the mindset of patience; the methodology of developing better relationships and listening skills though patience; and what she calls “the paradox of patience”—slowing down your system, which may seem to take you off track, but actually affords you the time and flexibility to make the choices needed to weather unpredictable circumstances. And, in moments of our frustration, Andrea offers some practical ways to manage our experiences of time, making choices as to how to spend it wisely, rather than chafing with impatience.