I grew up with punctuality! It started when I was a child and had the responsibility of getting my sister to school on time. Since then I’ve been a stickler for not being late to anything. And if I am going to be more than 5 minutes late to an appointment, I make it a habit to call and let the person know I’m running behind.
There are people in this world who think clocks and watches are only decorations. They don’t have a clue what the word “late” means, nor do they care. It just seems to be their way of life, which is acceptable in some societies, but as far as I can tell, ours isn’t one of them.
Being a few minutes late occasionally with a valid excuse is okay. It happens to all of us. Flat tire, accident on the freeway, babysitter being late…these excuses only work a few times before an individual gets the reputation of always being the “late person.” But to not make a phone call, text or tweet to the person(s) who are in the meeting is inconsiderate, especially in the professional world.
I have heard the expression, “fashionably late” several times, but what does that mean? Making a grand entrance to a party so one will be noticed? Walking into a wedding or play that has begun, fashionably interrupting the event? I don’t think so!
Being perpetually late, in my opinion, points to disorganization. Preparing for a meeting in advance, which includes mapping out the route, gathering the required materials, picking out the outfit that will be worn to the meeting, etc, will help a person to be punctual.
Unless independently wealthy or perhaps retired, a person is stuck with accepting the fact that being on time IS the norm, so reserving the unhurried lifestyle for a vacation or for times when lateness isn’t a big deal, would be more appropriate.
