The Chronic Lateness Epidemic: Why We’re Always Running Behind
As someone who’s perpetually running late, I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve uttered those three dreaded words: “Sorry I’m late.” Whether it’s missing the subway, arriving fashionably late to meetings, or scrambling to get ready for a night out, being late has become an ingrained habit.
A Pandemic-Induced Reprieve? Think Again
When the pandemic hit, I thought I’d finally found a silver lining: no more rushing to catch trains or worrying about being fashionably late. But, as it turns out, chronic lateness can manifest in even the most mundane tasks. From missing email deadlines to showing up late to virtual meetings, the opportunities to be tardy are endless.
The Psychology of Lateness
So, why do some people consistently struggle with punctuality? According to experts, it’s not just about having less time or being overwhelmed. Some theories suggest that lateness is a passive-aggressive act, implying that one’s time is more valuable than others. Others believe it’s a cultural phenomenon, where certain communities view time differently. For many of us, however, it’s simply a matter of delusion – we underestimate the time it takes to complete tasks and overestimate our ability to multitask.
Breaking the Cycle of Lateness
So, how can we break free from the cycle of chronic lateness? Here are a few practical tips:
1. Flip the Script
Instead of doing last-minute tasks before leaving, promise yourself you’ll do them when you arrive at your destination. This will give you a sense of control and motivation to get there early.
2. Double Alarm
Set two alarms for virtual meetings – one 15 minutes before to check links and prep, and another 2 minutes before to dial in and wait for the meeting to begin. No sneaking in one last task!
3. Treat Early Arrival as Self-Care
Viewing early arrival as a gift to yourself can be a powerful motivator. Instead of stressing about being late, focus on the luxury of having extra time to yourself.
4. Be a Proactive Partner
If your partner is the chronically late one, try not to criticize or offer unsolicited advice. Instead, proactively suggest leaving times and implement strategies to help them stay on track.
The Road to Recovery
Changing our habits takes time and effort, but it’s possible. By acknowledging the underlying causes of our lateness and implementing practical strategies, we can break free from the cycle of chronic tardiness. And who knows – maybe scientists will stumble upon a cure for lateness while working on a COVID-19 vaccine!
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