Commit to punctuality.
When we show up for a job interview, we make sure to arrive early because being punctual conveys that we are responsible and makes a favorable impression.
It’s strange how that same thought process goes out the window in everyday life. Somehow, we don’t think we’ll be judged negatively on constantly being late for work meetings, school pickups, soccer practices and the like.
Sure, we all get stuck in traffic from time to time, have a meeting run over on occasion or have a child that needs to use the bathroom at the last minute. However, when being late becomes habitual, it begins to take a toll on the people we inconvenience. Our repeated tardiness comes across as inconsiderate, as if our time is more valuable than theirs, or people just lose complete faith in our ability to meet commitments.
Being late also takes a toll on ourselves. We feel stressed, increasing our blood pressure and heart rate. We are embarrassed, lowering our self-esteem. We are constantly rushing, which can lead to mix-ups, accidents, speeding tickets and other adverse events.
But, don’t fret; there is hope! Here are a few ways to ensure you stay on time and feel cool, calm and collected throughout your day:
Create a feasible weekly schedule for yourself – make realistic commitments for yourself and leave plenty of time to transition between activities. It is okay to say “no” when you already have a lot on your plate.
Assess the next day the night before- plan out when you need to leave for each activity to arrive 10 minutes early and factor in extra time for unanticipated delays.
Prep for your day the night before- get ahead on responding to email; pack lunches, backpacks and gym clothes; check the weather; pick out clothes; plan breakfast; fill up your car; order groceries/make dinner reservations, etc. If it can be done ahead of time, do it!
Get out of bed as soon as your alarm goes off.
Set an alarm for 10 minutes before your planned departure time- this gives you enough time to wrap up what you are doing and start heading to your next destination, be it a conference room or a doctor’s appointment.
Use transit apps- Google Maps, Apple Maps, Android Auto, Waze, etc. will route you the fastest way at your exact departure time and provide an ETA, or give you a gut check on how long it will take you to get from Point A to Point B.
Try hard not to get sidetracked – this can take many forms…a colleague stopping you on the way to the conference room to complain about their review, a long text exchange between your friends about school drama, an unexpected phone call to service your A/C system, etc. Cut conversations short and turn off phone distractions when possible, so you can focus on getting to where you need to be.
When you commit to being punctual, you commit to showing up in your best state (goodbye adrenaline and stress!). You have time to think clearly and get ready for the task at hand. When you are consistently on time, it conveys you are organized and dependable, and you value everyone’s time, including your own. All of which boost your professional and personal image and credibility.