Being Timely

Previously, I wrote about being "fashionably late" (2013). Since then, I've been arriving to things promptly or even early successfully. But I think I'm part of a generation that tends to run late or arrives on their own accord ignore any set time; not to say that past generations do or don't have the same behaviors. It's gotten to the point where I would directly ask if I should plan on the actual time given or "Should I plan on being late on purpose?".

One of the more frustrating habits I have seen on countless occasions is telling someone you are on your way when you're not, or that you're closer to your destination than you really are. I admit, I have done that in the past, but haven't in years. And I think everyone knows someone that does this. While it may have some short-term relief, at the end of it all, the people waiting for you are just going to be more annoyed that you are late AND lied about where you were.

To quote myself:
"There is a certain respect that comes with arriving promptly to things. Just think about it: You wouldn't show up late to impress (e.g. an interview) or for special occasions (e.g. weddings). It is a bit insulting to those who are on time. Showing up late can display disrespect for other people's time or that their own time is far more important than others. It's even worse when everyone has to wait to order their food at dinner due to a late arriver. It can also show others that late-showers are unreliable and selfish.

Hopefully this trend that being late is acceptable does not continue."

While we to tend to get comfortable with our friends and family, showing up on time is just the right thing to do.

Let's take advantage of technology to help do that using calendars and maps (for traveling times). If we want to take it one step further, it would be good to hold people accountable by allowing people to see where you really are at certain times.