The Transformative Power of Patience...
“We live only once, but if we do it right, once is enough.” — Mae West
Years ago, after attending a workshop focused on patient care for those with special needs, I made a decision that I am profoundly grateful for. That day, I resolved to dedicate my efforts to working with patients with special needs, ensuring they received the same level of care as all others.
Upon delving into the issue, I discovered that the root cause was a disconnect between doctor and patient. Specifically, it was often a lack of patience and time on the part of the doctor. We identified that patients with special needs required more time to express themselves fully. Recognizing this, it became clear that treating all patients with unwavering dedication was crucial. This shift in approach significantly improved the relationship between doctor and patient on both sides.
Working with patients with dementia taught me the value of allowing them time to find the right words for self-expression. Although it may take longer, this patience ensures that patients feel heard and understood, and doctors gain a deeper insight into their needs.
Practicing patience can be challenging, especially when exhaustion and a long day test our tolerance. Through trial and error, I found that repeating a mantra helped me cultivate patience. Over time, this practice became second nature, transforming me into a more patient person in all aspects of my life.
I now take pride in the patience I extend to my clients, patients, friends, and family. Embracing Mae West’s wisdom, I believe that learning patience and enhancing communication has enriched my life, making it filled with understanding, joy, and love.
I encourage you to reflect on your own interactions. Do you find yourself quickly losing patience or struggling to understand others? Sometimes, we become so accustomed to our reactions that we fail to notice them. If you identify areas where patience is lacking, take time to understand why and explore new methods to foster patience. Life is a journey of learning, growing, and evolving. It’s never too late to change and improve yourself!
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