”Learning to Trust the Process: Embracing Patience and Finding Joy in the Journey.”

Why Is Patience So Hard?

Why is it that most humans seem to believe that life is more about the end goal, than actually enjoying the ride, and the process towards achieving that end goal?

That annoying frustration that occurs while waiting for results. Like the act of waiting in itself would produce tangible results – No, I’m afraid not. There needs to be a dance between taking inspired action and trusting the process.

9 months ago I decided that I wanted to start learning ballet, and what can I say; it has been a slow progress. Ballet is one of the most difficult skills to master, and here I am thinking that I should master it within a few months! A skill that requires a lifetime to master! However, then I come back to my senses, and tell myself that ”Linda you’re doing a great job just by showing up to class, and for learning something new as an adult, and something as challenging as ballet; that is an achievement in itself!”

But then, there is always this constant struggle between wanting immediate results, and embracing the need to wait.

The Problem with a “Results-Only” Mindset

Why are we so obsessed with immediate outcomes?

The craving for instant gratification—a desire for immediate reward or satisfaction—is deeply embedded in human behavior, amplified today by technology and social media.

In an age where information, entertainment, and acknowledgment are just a tap away, we’ve become accustomed to getting quick dopamine bursts from likes, comments, and messages. Social media platforms are structured around this need, allowing us to showcase highlights of our lives, from personal achievements to everyday wins. This instant feedback loop not only satisfies our need for validation but also shapes how we present ourselves, often curating a version of life that emphasizes the highs. While celebrating successes publicly can inspire and connect us, it can also feed the impulse for instant validation, creating a cycle where we seek more frequent recognition and affirmation online.

There’s nothing wrong with seeking inspiration from others, however, remember that you can inspire yourself as well, and you should! Letting outside validation be your driving force will eventually lead to disappointment, burnout, or even moments of despair when the validation slowly fades away. Therefore, one of the most important virtues – Learn to validate yourself.

The process – whether it’s mastering a new skill, getting a promotion, unlearning destructive mental patterns, changing career or life path- can and will most likely be uncomfortable. The actual learning process shapes you into someone better equipped to handle the success you’re striving for, it helps form you into the person you are yet to become. Yet, the more I think about it ”The person you are yet to become.” – It’s not so much about becoming, but rather to fully embrace being in the present moment.

What “Trusting the Process” Really Means

Trusting the process can mean different things to different people. To me trusting the process means leaning into a higher power; a force that is constantly around – within and without. I’m trying my best to dance with this force on a daily basis, letting it guide me, noticing its subtle signs and synchronicities. And the more present I am, the smoother the dance. This doesn’t mean that I don’t take responsibility for my part; there needs to be a co-operation. I am it, as much as it is me.

Try to see the waiting period as an important time for growth. During a “waiting” period, you’re not actually waiting passively. You’re learning new skills, building resilience, or developing insights you couldn’t gain otherwise. The waiting period is in fact a necessity; without it we would not evolve and grow into the next versions of ourselves.

Practical Tips for Embracing Patience and Finding Joy Along the Way

• Set Smaller Milestones: Set small, and easily achievable milestones and celebrate them. Breaking down big goals into small victories helps keep your motivation up.
• Daily Reflection or Journaling: Start each day with a short journaling session, as this will help you see the progress you’re making, even if it feels slow. What is more, journaling and self-reflection can help highlight positive changes and create a sense of accomplishment.
• Mindfulness Practices: Mindfulness or gratitude practices can help you stay present and enjoy where you are, right now. A calm, centered mindset is more likely to tackle and find solutions to obstacles and challenges when they arise. Start asking yourself on a daily basis: How do I feel right now? What is one thing I can do today that will take me one step closer to my desires? How can I make the most out of this day?

Letting Go and Leaning In

With this being said, while it’s natural to crave quick results, there’s immense value in letting go of strict timelines. By learning to trust the process, you’re setting yourself up not just for results, but for growth and a more fulfilling journey.

Try to embrace patience in a small area of your life this week, whether it’s something as small as just queuing without having to distract yourself meanwhile. Allow yourself to just be, and trust the process.