Being Patient for the long-haul
Learning to be patient takes . . . well, it takes a modicum of patience. And, I’m among those who’ve had to learn the hard way how impatience is a sure-fire way to run smackdab into trouble – quickly.
As a matter of fact, you and I both know it is often the case that we should take time to wait prudently to make the best logical move. Yet, we live in a fast-paced world where opportunities, bids, safety mishaps, product shortages, and lack of skilled labor can make us feel as if the proverbial walls are closing in. Then you must make decisions. Which will it be?
Time to act!
Time to be patient.
Patience plays a part in our short and long-term business results.
Limited knowledge or skill sets may be challenges you face when you rush your construction business along hoping for fast results. Patience to learn more about the business of being in business is worth the time it takes.
Yet, be careful. Failing to act when necessary is one way of using the “patience card” when what you’re doing is procrastinating.
Being Patient through relationships
Patience gives you an added ability to treat other people with kindness, a sense of decency, and respectful regard. That in turn, increases the possibility they will respond back to you in the same way.
Cultivate patience to increase good relationships with:
Partners
GCs or owners
Employees or subs
Suppliers and service providers
Family and friends
Being Patient pays off
What you gain are:
Personal Grit
Fortitude to make decisions
Ability to wait for the RIGHT opportunities
Positive recognition among your peers
Increased customer satisfaction
Stronger profits
What others say about being patient
“Patience is the companion of wisdom.” Saint Augustine
“Each life is made up of mistakes and learning, waiting and growing, practicing patience and being persistent.” Billy Graham
“Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.” John Quincy Adams
“Patience is bitter, but its fruit is sweet.” ― Aristotle
“Only those who have patience to do simple things perfectly ever acquire the skill to do difficult things easily.” James J. Corbett
“Patience is a virtue, and I’m learning patience. It’s a tough lesson.” Elon Musk
“How poor are they that have not patience! What wound did ever heal but by degrees?” William Shakespeare
“All men commend patience, although few are willing to practice it.” Thomas a Kempis
In the end, being patient IS a big deal!
Savvy construction contractors understand delay doesn’t equal denial. And they see that success begins with patience. It is then strengthened with commitment. And continues with the due diligence necessary for excellence.
Patience takes time and conscious effort to master and is often the factor which sets successful construction contractors apart from Joe Blow Contractor.
It is our desire this article (among our growing library of construction-centric informational articles) is helpful in assisting commercial construction contractors build better building businesses.
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