I wouldn't say I'm particularly patient - I just walk along listening to the songs and look when something sounds close.
Insects can require a lot more patience, harder to get sharp and composed, but at least when they're disturbed they'll land nearby and/or return a few moments later.
I find it hard to be sure sometimes - two sides of going to a camera club is seeing top quality work which can be inspiring, but can also make it hard to measure against.