FAQautism

Sometimes our patience meter malfunctions and the most insignificant issue can get blown out of proportion. When we feel our patience growing short, we might want to glance at the gauge and recognize the need for taking a break. Let’s look at some tips for preventing overload and for keeping our patience meter at a reasonable level.

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1. Time factor. If we look at our daily lives, we will recognize this predictable patter: patience grows shorter as time grows shorter. When I finally accepted this reality as a rather scattered and disorganized mom, I started doing more tasks in the evenings rather than waiting until the busy mornings before school and work. Our mornings were still somewhat chaotic, but I was less impatient and grumpy, so everyone was happier.

2. Realistic expectations. When we find our patience meters heading toward red alert, we might want to look at our expectations. By lowering the bar a bit, we might be able to decrease impatience and stress, adding contentment to our lives and the lives of others around us.

3. Uncontrollable circumstances. Some circumstances are simply beyond our control. For example, we only increase stress and discontent if we are impatient or angry about a flat tire or a sick child.

4. Impact on others. Although some individuals with autism do not focus on the frame of mind of other people, others are very sensitive to our impatience or increased stress levels. Patient responses and relaxed attitudes make a difference in many lives.

TIP FOR THE DAY: It is unrealistic, of course, to think we can maintain patience throughout our lives, but we can take a few purposeful steps in an effort to make ourselves and others more content.

NOTE TO READERS AND LISTENERS: I am Cathy Knoll, a board certified music therapist and long-time friend of many folks with autism. At FAQautism.com we are committed to providing free, practical, everyday tips for making life better for people with autism. Feel free to send me a confidential email at talk@FAQautism.com with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. And don’t forget to check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse into the world of autism. http://FAQautism.com

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