Don’t just stand there, bust a move: The art of waiting
I’m obsessed with our new doormat and the reminder is shares with every visitor. My hope is that even for someone unfamiliar with the classic Young MC song from the late 80’s, this phrase will still make them smile (and maybe bust a move) while they wait.
At any given moment, we’re all waiting for something - for our little ones to start school so we can rediscover ourselves; for the change in seasons and the exciting plans we may have; for a more fulfilling job, greater financial freedom, or space to create; for a baby, a partner, or a business deal.
Waiting is inherent in living. Unfortunately, in this age of instant gratification, our patience is often tested. If you’re waiting anxiously and complaining about the process, then you’re missing out on the richness of those in-between moments. Plus, waiting fortifies the mind - and isn’t that partly why we’re here? To gain some mental strength and grow as humans? Here’s what we know about the effect of waiting on our mental strength:
It increases our capacity for dealing with the tough stuff. The only way to build endurance is to endure.
It offers us the opportunity to practice resourcefulness. If we’re waiting on something bigger, better, or easier, then our challenge is to make the most of what we currently have.
It builds tolerance, empathy, and gratitude. One who is forced to wait becomes appreciative and humble.
Remember those mental benefits the next time you find yourself resisting the wait.
Now, just for a moment, I invite you to reflect on your own waiting journey. What is it that you’re waiting for right now? And, more importantly, what are you doing and how are you showing up in life while you wait? Are you dancing? Or are you letting the weight of this chapter push you down?
In the process of turning lemons into lemonade, there’s a messy period of time when you’re swimming in a vat of lemons. It feels lumpy, juicy, and utterly uncomfortable. But, you have a choice. You can choose to embrace the mess, get gritty, and enjoy the aroma. Or you can complain that your eyes are stinging and whine endlessly about how you can’t wait for the sweet and refreshing lemonade to finally be made.
Which do you choose? Waiting anxiously or waiting patiently? The latter is certainly a lot more pleasant for you and everyone in your orbit, so choose wisely.
How, though, do we wait with integrity? If it’s really more about the journey, and less about the destination, then how do we master the art of waiting? Here are some suggestions:
Engage in productive habits
Instead of letting the world hijack your time (ehem, social media & news outlets), be thoughtful about the daily activities you engage in.
Carve out time for introspection
Reflect on which emotions are being triggered while you wait and increase your awareness around how you’re speaking to yourself during this difficult time.
Find joy in the little things
Shift your focus from the outcome you desire to the abundance around you right now. If it’s raining, throw on your rain boots and dance in the puddles.
We’re always waiting for something - and life is short - so while we wait, we might as well dance.