Patience.
I’m not really sure what it means to be patient. Sometimes, I guess, it means waiting and watching and biding my time while others move about frantically like whirling dervishes. Or they make demands. Or create crisis where none is needed. Or keep changing their mind.
I guess it’s the silent waiting for others to reach a resting point for themselves. A place where they are happy with their own decisions.
It’s hard work.
I frequently encounter people who like to second guess or have second thoughts. Buyer’s remorse or Seller’s remorse. Indecision about whether the choice they made is a good one or not. Usually, it’s a good choice to begin with but they start to listen to other people who don’t have a stake in the outcome.
Me: “But, wait, you just told me you wanted to do this.”
Them: “I know but I’m not sure now. I want to make sure all the options have been considered. I think I may not be getting the best deal. Best advantage. Winning position.”
It has to be a win-lose proposition. So, I have to be patient. I have to wait it out until they either stick with their initial decision or, after serious dithering, make a different one. Usually based on the need to be right or win or be in control.
Maybe it’s me that’s the one that wants to be in control. Maybe it’s me that’s the one making the wrong decision or giving the wrong advice. Maybe it’s me who just wants to get on with it and be done with it.
Patience.
