Chapter 1: Understanding Waiting

Recall those childhood moments when you eagerly anticipated the school bell signaling the end of the day? Or think back to the excitement of waiting for a beloved TV show to return for its next season.

Photo by John Salvino on Unsplash

Time often feels like it drags during such waiting periods. As adults, our waiting experiences evolve. We might find ourselves waiting for:

• A higher-paying job after countless applications
• Results from our fitness routines
• The right romantic partner after a series of unsuitable matches
• Opportunities to travel the globe after diligent saving
• Freedom from debt following years of hard work

Life is a blend of highs and lows, and while we can't expect excitement constantly, we must also navigate moments of heartache that seem to linger. Although we can influence how we spend our time, there are situations beyond our control. The key lies in how we respond.

How do we cope with those tedious waiting periods? Let’s engage in a brief exercise.

Take a moment now!

Seriously! Try this.

Clear your mind, close your eyes, and set a timer. Eliminate all distractions and maintain silence for three minutes. Go ahead, no preparation needed.

How did that feel? If meditation isn't part of your routine, it may have been jarring and tough to quiet your thoughts on cue. Were you able to achieve mental stillness, or did you find your mind wandering, eager for the timer to signal the end?

That’s a perfect metaphor for a waiting season—an inner struggle to remain present while that anxious anticipation simmers beneath the surface.

Perhaps true maturity lies in how we navigate these uneventful waiting periods. What steps can we take to make the most of these times?

Set small, achievable goals that don’t demand long waiting periods. Plan enjoyable activities before or after work. Before relocating abroad while waiting for my visa, I organized day trips to explore new places and often woke early to stroll around a serene lake populated by ducks. I made these arrangements to stay grounded and avoid becoming overwhelmed by frustration.

Consider making a commitment with a friend to acknowledge three things you’re thankful for. While it might sound clichéd, this practice is surprisingly effective. Our thoughts, words, and actions are interconnected. Cultivating positive habits in one area can enhance the others.

Remind yourself of what you are waiting for and savor the excitement. You could write a note to yourself or create a digital vision board. Recently, I designed a vision board on Canva to serve as a motivational lock screen on my phone, reminding me of my goals and the promising experiences awaiting me.

Although waiting can be daunting, tedious, and at times disheartening, it also fosters maturity, patience, and can be a period of remarkable personal growth.

Chapter 2: Embracing the Journey of Waiting

Learn to appreciate the transformative power of waiting.

In this video, Priscilla Shirer discusses the significance of recognizing the value in the seasons of waiting, offering encouragement and insights on how these periods can shape our lives.

Pastor Brian Mowrey shares his thoughts on the idea of waiting and the growth that comes from it in his sermon, "On the Other Side of Yes."