Patience is something that must be adopted by every Muslim as it is something that has been preached to us by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself through his actions, numerous times, when he suffered from the atrocities of the disbelievers.
Hence, we should follow the footsteps of our beloved Prophet (PBUH) and try to show patience whether it is in the workplace or home or any other setting.
Your workplace can prove to be a test of its own as you have to interact with people from different backgrounds and different temperaments for around 8 hours per day! It can prove to be pretty exhausting.
At some point in time you might even feel on the verge of an outburst; but at that time just remember Allah (SWT) and what He would want us to do.
In the eyes of Allah (SWT), the best solution would be to be patient and leave everything onto Him and trust Him.
And be patient, [O Muhammad], and your patience is not but through Allah. And do not grieve over them and do not be in distress over what they conspire. (Surah Nahl:127)
So here are a few tips that will help you be patient at work:
1. Focus on What Makes You Happy
Try to focus on the things that make you happy at work. There must be a friend, some work task, a tea/coffee break or some part of your day in the office which makes you feel happy.
2. Take Time to Relax
Whenever you feel on the verge of an outburst, take a time out and just relax for a few minutes, taking a few deep, slow breaths so that you do not snap in front of your colleagues and say things to your colleagues or boss that you’ll later regret.
3. Show Empathy
If you ever feel angry at someone, try to be in the other person’s shoe. Show some empathy and give them the benefit of doubt that maybe they are going through some personal issue which is bringing out the worse in them.
4. Control Your Emotions
Whenever you feel like someone is about to push your buttons with their conversation, try to switch off your emotions for that particular conversation or just zone out of that conversation and just nod away. Learn to manage your emotions so that you are able to control them in such situations.
5. Be a Good Example for Others
If none of these things work out, try to think about how Allah (SWT) would want you to react in such a situation. Remember that Islam advocates patience and tolerance; and Muslims are always encouraged to forgive and forget.
O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient. (Surah Baqarah: 153)
When you are patient with others, others will eventually follow suit and be patient with you. Furthermore, you will feel happier and internally satisfied. So the next time you feel annoyed or angry at someone, try to follow these quick tips to help you practice patience.