Lost art of waiting

In our hyper-connected world, waiting is increasingly seen as a flaw in the system rather than an inevitable part of life.

- NARAYANAN KIZHUMUNDAYUR

Instant messaging, on-demand entertainment, rapid deliveries, and fast food have become so ingrained in our daily routines that we scarcely notice how our patience has eroded. Yet, the art of waiting —once a cornerstone of personal growth, relationship building, and societal advancement—holds the key to many aspects of human fulfillment. As instant gratification reshapes our expectations and behaviors, it is worth exploring what we have lost and why rediscovering the virtue of patience is more important than ever.

The modern era is defined by speed. With just a few taps on a smartphone, we can summon a taxi, order groceries, or stream the latest movie. This unprecedented convenience is the result of technological advancements aimed at eliminating inefficiencies. While these innovations have undeniably made life easier, they have also conditioned us to expect instant solutions to almost every problem.

Social media platforms, for instance, are designed to provide immediate feedback in the form of likes, shares, and comments. Online shopping platforms offer same-day delivery, erasing the anticipation that once accompanied waiting for a parcel. Even in our personal lives, dating apps allow us to browse potential partners like items in a catalogue, fostering a culture where choices are plentiful but commitment is fleeting.

While these changes have improved productivity and convenience, they have also nurtured a sense of impatience. We've come to see waiting as an obstacle rather than an opportunity, a mind-set that has far-reaching consequences for our relationships, creativity, and mental well-being.

Historically, waiting was not only unavoidable but often celebrated as a virtue. Agrarian societies, for example, were intimately familiar with the rhythms of nature. Farmers waited for the rains, the harvest, and the changing seasons. This waiting was active, filled with preparation, observation, and hope.