Are you chronically late for everything? Some people are fashionably late for every commitment– it doesn’t matter what it is, enjoyable or not. That is not very healthy for both you and the people being affected by your lateness. One time too many and you’ll eventually lose the trust of others because they will think they can’t rely on you. It will also cause you stress and anxiety because you are rushing to beat the clock. If a boss, friend, or significant other has ever confronted you on this topic then it is time to change your habits.
It is not too late to try to redeem yourself before you lose someone or something very important to you. The negative effects can also be psychological because you are always apologizing and lose your self esteem along the way. You are probably aware of the fact that you are always a latecomer but do you know why? There are certain personality traits that are associated with latecomers. See if you can identify with one or more of them.
People who like to take risks by leaving for their appointments at the lastest possible moment- leaving no room for incidents that may happen. People who felt suppressed as children by authority figures may also use lateness as a way of rebelling. Late shows also don’t like to wait for others because they have a fear of having nothing to do. Allow yourself to be 10-15 minutes early for appointments. Bring a notebook or a good page turner in case you have to keep yourself occupied.
Those who are unorganized have trouble with time management, therefore are unable to calculate how much time they will need to get ready. Estimate how much time you think it will take you to do each task and double it. You might misplace your keys and waste more time by searching for them so keep them in one spot. If you tend to forget certain things, put a sticky note in a place where you’ll see it just before you walk out the door.
It is important to identify the causes of this perpetual cycle of self destruction. The possible cures may seem trivial, but it takes true commitment and a willingness to change for the better. By putting in a little effort, being on time will impress other people and make them feel important. Ultimately, this will only be beneficial to you and make you feel more at peace with yourself.
