Patient with...You!

We often think about being patient with others, but how patient are you with.... you? We may look in the mirror, confront our faults and then simply walk away feeling helpless to change. The next time you find yourself being impatient with where you are physically, mentally, emotionally or even financially, try a few of these strategies to improve your point of view about you:

• If you want to improve some area of your life, remember that it takes time. Research shows that if you want a new attitude or behavior to "stick" you have to practice it for at least 21 days.
• Reflect on other challenges you have overcome and reflect on what you learned about yourself in those situations. Apply that learning to this new situation.
• Focus on your strengths. What is it that you do well? How often do you have the opportunity to engage in those strengths? If it is not frequently, what changes could you make?
• If you are trying to stop a negative habit, replace it with a positive one instead of just trying to stop the negative one. If you don't replace the void with something, something else will.
• Spend some time with people who have your best interests at heart. They can sometimes give you a more objective view of yourself.

It might seem like a daily battle, but the fight will be worth it. In the end, you will be a better you!