We all encounter situations that frustrate us and test our patience and when they do, we have to make a conscious effort to be calm. It's not that being patient, per se, is a social skill but acting out in frustration or anger because of a lack of patience is definitely not a good social skill.

None of us are perfect, but we are doing the best we can. If we could do better, we would. When your partner or spouse keeps doing the same thing over and over again, even promising to change, but not following through, you need to remind yourself that you have chosen an imperfect person who is doing his or her best. And what if that best is not good enough for you? Ask the magic question.