Patience

By Ethan Drain

With the current state of our society and the spread of the new coronavirus, most people are experiencing a packed house. We are trapped inside with all the members of our family, with nowhere to go, and not much to do. Inevitably, after some time together, our patience is tested in one way or another.

We can read all of the articles about what to do and how to feel during our forced togetherness, about how to deal with being at home 24/7 where previously we were free to go anywhere and do anything, about fun activities to do with our family members, about how to keep mentally and emotionally healthy during this trying time, etc …. but it’s all easier said than done. We are human, and sometimes, we get annoyed with each other.

For me, personally, this time of quarantine has been all about patience. My wife and I have been fortunate enough to have a family member care for our young child while he is out of daycare, and that family member has stayed with us and helped us immensely. I have had to remind myself to be patient with everyone and not sweat the small things while we live in close quarters, whether it be something left out or left on, spilled beverages, a dirty house, or no alone time.  I constantly remind myself that the health of our family is first and foremost.

As collectors, patience is demanded of us every day, on every call. Being patient and understanding with the person on the other end of the phone is essential to helping consumers resolve outstanding bills and helping our clients get paid. If we take the time to understand the consumer’s situation, their side of the story, and what it’s going to take to get the debt resolved, not only are we going to have a better chance to collect the debt, but all parties in the end are going to be satisfied.

Patience takes practice, it takes hard work, it takes constant reminders of what our overall goals are, and it means treating others with dignity and respect. Adopting an attitude and mentality of patience will take us further in life, both personally and professionally.

Good luck to everyone during this unprecedented time, and remember to be patient with each other!