Punctuality is the characteristic of being able to complete a required task or fulfill an obligation before or at a previously designated time. “Punctual” is often used synonymously with “on time.” (source Wikipedia)
Being on time is important and shows a lot about people – according to my husband. I can honestly say going anywhere with him we are at least 10 minutes early. I think it is because he is part military and the other part is just his attitude – both good things. He doesn’t want ever want to be that person who is always late or the one who people have to wait on.
My mom and brother always like to show up to events about 5 minutes before it starts. During the summers we used to who horses a lot. I had a horse that needed to be warmed up and eased into and vent. Showing up when the event started didn’t help, as we still had to unload, sign up, and check out the arena. I like to show up – walk around, look at the arena, sign up, talk to people, and then saddle and warm up. This is about an hour-long process for me. My mom made me have anxiety growing up. My brother liked to roll in and show how awesomely fast he could do things – sorry Sid – so not cool.
Interviewing for jobs I think some people thought I was crazy, and some people were happy that I was about 15 minutes early. I always wanted the people interviewing me to realize that I was very appreciative that they were giving me a chance to speak with them. I never wanted to be late and I also hated it when working for a staffing company they would tell me to show up early. I politely told them to stop telling me that as I found it insulting to my character as I was always early. We finally came to an understanding and I want to say I found my current job on my own and without them.
I have plenty of friends who are late people – I have just learned to tell them things start about 10 minutes early then they really do – I love you guys, but I have learned to not let you make me late. 😉
So here are some simple steps to becoming punctual:
Acknowledge that you are a person who is having a hard time being punctual. Isn’t this kind of like an addiction – admitting you have a problem is the first step 🙂
Be conscious of the time. Maybe even set your clocks 5 minutes faster.
Wake up when you are supposed to wake up – go to bed when you should go to bed.
Commit yourself to being 15 minutes early to everything.
Keep your schedule organized and prepare for everything ahead of time.
Try to not accept last-minute invites or tasks that may get in your way of being on time to the next event.
Plan for traffic and enjoy the ease of travel if there is none.
What are your tips for being on time?
Miss Molly 