During the month of December, patience is a real gift. There is so much going on in each of our personal lives with the holidays and with it being the end of the year at work. Stress increases trying to get done what needs to get done. Conflict arises with personal and work relationships with the pressure of the month. There is a lot of sadness for some people around the holidays as well.
Here are some tips to increase your patience and enjoy the month a bit more.
Breathe – it sounds so basic but it is probably the number one best thing you can do for yourself and others. Take a breath before you react to situations. It will help you relax, collect your thoughts, and respond more appropriately.
Check for understanding – ask questions to clarify what the situation really is. Sometimes we make assumptions and this will help with making sure we have the facts.
Listen actively – Suspend judgment and pay attention to nonverbal behavior. This will enable the other person to speak and will show that you care thus building trust, credibility, and relationships.
Give positive feedback & praise – stop the craziness and take the time to tell others what is so great about them. We don’t tell each other this often enough and it is a great time to share something positive.
Pay it forward – do something nice for someone else. It can be anything. Something small or something big! It will help someone else in a time of need and will warm your heart.
Enjoy the month of December!