If you’ve ever looked online for “How to Stop Being Late,” at least you know you have a problem, which is usually a good first step. Many people never worry about being late or don’t mind wasting other people’s time. This is probably because they don’t think being late is that bad or that being on time is important. If you don’t change your mind, you’ll never think about being on time. But if you already know there is a problem, it can help you start making changes.
There could be many reasons why you’re always late. You might get distracted by something else or overestimate how long it will take to get there. Anxiety or depression can also sometimes play a big role. And this can cause problems with other people, especially if you are late for business meetings or even a job interview.
If you want to stop, here are some things to think about so you can at least try to avoid getting into this kind of trouble. We give you advice on how to stop being late.
Really calculate time… and add a little more to itÂ
It seems pretty obvious, but we know that many people don’t do it and just go with their guts. If you do that, you might end up taking an hour longer than you thought to get there. Take a moment to figure out how long you’ll be going in a certain direction to keep this from happening.
Google Maps can be helpful because you can check the transfer times based on the time of day and the day of the week. If you choose those options, you will see things clearly.
On the other hand, you need to add a little more time to that time. Let’s say 10 to 30 minutes or longer if it’s a job interview. This is to account for things you can’t predict, like an accident that slows down traffic or the time it might take you to get all your things together before leaving.
Use a calendar and reminders
First, put it on your calendar so you can see it early and remember that you have a commitment. If that’s not enough, set alarms that go off when it’s time to leave the house. Of course, you have to work for this, so try to pay attention to the alarms and get to your appointment on time.
Carry a watch
Another simple tip, but one that is very useful. Even though everyone has a clock on their phone, not everyone seems to know what time it is until they look at their phone, and some apps even hide the clock.
We suggest getting a clock or surrounding yourself with clocks, like putting one on the wall, one on your bedside table, and more, if you want to get better at telling time. This will help you keep track of time and keep you from wasting hours before you realize it’s time to go.
Avoid making too many plans on important days
Let’s say you have a job interview in the afternoon and decide in the morning to do something fun or a long list of things before going. This can make you lose track of time, which can cause you to be late.Â
If you need to be on time for an important meeting or business, don’t make a lot of plans or do anything else that might distract you.
Last, don’t forget that other people’s time is just as valuable as yours.
