Patience. I imagine to most people, patience isn’t a word used in describing their initial reasoning behind acquiring houseplants. It certainly wasn’t a notion in my head when I first decided to add plants into my living space.

 

Esthetically, I’ve always been drawn to spaces, both interiors and exteriors, that have greenery. Perhaps my constant exposure to trees and plants as a child, growing up on a 22 acre farm, contributes to that admiration now as an adult.

 

When imagining my living space, I’ve always foreseen plants as a primary choice in decorations. So, it was no surprise to me that the garden department at Home Depot was my first stop upon picking up the keys to my first, very own, studio apartment in Boston. Two pothos plants and an electric drill later, I was on track to having the next Pinterest worthy apartment.

 

Months later as I sat on my cold hardwood floors leaned against the wall, having another mid-20s meltdown over the trajectory of my career, I noticed my thoughts drift into wondering why my pathos plants weren’t draping gracefully over the sides of their baskets like Pinterest had depicted. I could feel the heat crawling up my spine, tensing my neck muscles, and begin antagonizing my collar bones. I thought, “If I can’t even make my plants grow, how can I possibility make this career happen!?” Anxious is not a word I enjoy using to describe my character but its there. “Stop worrying, Jess” rings in the back of my head quite often. Thank you, Patrick. But it’s true.

 

Ironically, that moment of staring at my plants brought me to an awareness that learning to be patient was a gap I mindfully needed to work on within myself. In order for my plants to thrive, I needed to allow them the space and opportunity to grow, at their own pace, requiring me to be understanding in the process. It was a great reminder of the importance of acknowledgement and acceptance of the truth.

 

I highly encourage everyone, if able, to incorporate houseplants within their decor not only at home but in their workspace as well. Not only will you hopefully grow and learn from them as I have but they also offer some other wonderful science backed benefits!

 

Houseplants have scientifically been proven to reduce physical and psychological stress. Many studies have also shown they can make you more productive and healthier. Plants consume carbon dioxide and give off oxygen, meaning they help improve indoor air quality as well!

 

There are many options to complement your personal style if you choose to bring a snippet of nature indoors with a houseplant (or two)!