Patience is the ability to let your light shine after your fuse has blown.
- Bob Levey
Let’s just say that when it comes to my list of virtues, patience isn’t in the top 10. Or 15. Or 20 for that matter. In fact, my lack of patience has gotten me into a lot of trouble over the years. Like that time I flipped off another driver on La Cienega Blvd. only to have him jump out of his car, steroid infused muscles busting out of his white tank top as he tried to pull me through my sunroof to possibly kill me.
So, needless to say, this quote really appeals to me. Because let’s be honest, we all blow a fuse now and then. Sometimes it’s in anger. Sometimes it’s because we’re overwhelmed. And sometimes, it’s simply exhaustion. Regardless of the reason, the important thing is to cut ourselves some slack and remember that though the fuse may be blown, the light isn’t out. It’s just taken the slow boat to China.
So, the next time that you find yourself in a “fuse blown” situation, practice a little self patience. For me, this means:
- Reminding myself that I’m only human and make mistakes (easier said than done, I know)
- Closing my eyes and taking a few deep breathes (seriously simple, but so effective)
- Clenching and unclenching my hands (2 times minimum)
- Consciously lowering my shoulders away from my ears (what woman wants to look like the Hulk, right?)
- Pulling up on my lower abs to “center” myself (which has the added bonus of flattening the tummy)
These simple tricks allow me to reset the fuse box and turn the light back on.
