"I am extraordinarily patient, provided I get my own way in the end"

Margaret Thatcher’s statement showcases a nuanced view of patience tied directly to determination and personal ambition. The phrase suggests that patience is not an unconditional or passive virtue but rather a strategic tool. Rather than advocating for waiting as a virtue in itself, patience here functions as a means to an end, a deliberate tactic employed in pursuit of one’s goals. Thatcher underlines her willingness to endure delays, setbacks, or the slow unfolding of circumstances not out of deference or resignation, but because she is firmly focused on achieving her objectives. The underlying message is that patience, when combined with resolve, can be a powerful asset in navigating obstacles and resistance.

There is also a subtle irony in the statement, as it gently mocks the conventional virtue of patience by attaching a condition: it is only commendable when it works in service of one’s vision. This perspective departs from the traditional image of patience as always selfless, humble, or virtuous, revealing a pragmatic, even somewhat ruthless approach. By insisting on getting her own way, Thatcher reveals a single-mindedness that hints at her leadership style, unyielding, strategic, and goal-oriented. The phrase suggests that genuine persistence is not necessarily about the passage of time or tolerance of difficulty, but about maintaining focus on the outcome and adapting one’s strategy accordingly.

Moreover, Thatcher’s words reflect the reality of political and personal negotiation, where patience is sometimes less about accepting circumstances and more about biding one’s time until conditions become favorable. It highlights an active patience, waiting, but with intent and vigilance, ready to seize opportunity when it arises. Ultimately, this perspective elevates patience from a passive quality into a powerful instrument of will, implying that steadfastness is most rewarding and effective for those who are clear about their desired destination and willing to persevere until it is reached.