How To Arrive On Time
Master the Art of Punctuality
Let’s face it arriving on time is an art, and not everyone has mastered it. Whether it’s showing up to work, a family gathering, or even a doctor’s appointment, punctuality can sometimes feel like a puzzle. But worry not, this article will help you become one of those people who always manage to be on time without breaking a sweat.
A reader once asked, “How do you get places on time?” And honestly, it made me think. It’s not just about good intentions it’s about strategy. Here are 10 practical tips to help you show up when you’re supposed to, with real-life examples to keep things relatable and engaging.
Tip #1: Define “On-Time” For You
Is being on time arriving 10 minutes early, or exactly when the event starts? A former coach of mine used to say, “If you’re early, you’re on time. If you’re on time, you’re late.” Take a moment to define what “on time” means for you based on the occasion. For instance, being early for a doctor’s appointment is smart because of the paperwork, but showing up right when dinner is served might be ideal for a casual family gathering.
Tip #2: Get The Details Right
Before you plan your journey, know the exact start time and location. Use this information to calculate when you should leave. For example, if you’re going to a friend’s wedding, arriving 30 minutes early is better because you’ll have time to find your seat, settle in, and maybe even take a few photos before the ceremony starts. On the other hand, a dinner reservation? Aim for 5 minutes early any sooner might be awkward.
Tip #3: Understand Your Leave Time
Leaving the house isn’t as simple as walking out the door. Factor in the extra time needed to get from your door to your actual mode of transport. Maybe you live in a high-rise and need to wait for the elevator or walk a few blocks to your car. I, for one, need an extra three minutes just to navigate from my back door to the garage sounds small, but it adds up.
Tip #4: Add a Buffer to Your Travel Time
Life is unpredictable. Add at least 5 minutes to your usual travel time to account for unforeseen delays. You might hit traffic, need to stop for gas, or encounter construction work. One client of mine lives 20 minutes away, but I always leave 30 minutes before our appointment — just in case.
Tip #5: Use GPS Even If You Think You Know the Way
You might feel like you know your usual routes by heart, but GPS can save you from unexpected delays. I’ve had days where a 15-minute drive turned into 40 minutes because of sudden roadwork. By checking GPS ahead of time, you can reroute and arrive on time, stress-free.
Tip #6: Fill Your Gas Tank the Night Before
This one might sound obvious, but how many times have you jumped in the car, only to realize you need gas? Avoid this pitfall by making it a habit to fill up the night before or during your weekly errands. Trust me, starting your day with a full tank can be a lifesaver when you’re already racing against the clock.
Tip #7: Plan for Parking
Parking can be the ultimate time-sucker. Just last week, I arrived at an appointment with plenty of time, only to spend 15 minutes circling the block for parking. Now, I always add time for parking, especially when going to downtown events. Make this part of your routine, and you’ll avoid last-minute stress.
Tip #8: Keep Your Belongings Organized
One of my biggest pet peeves is seeing people scramble to gather their belongings as they leave the house. Make life easier on yourself by packing everything you need keys, wallet, phone, snacks — before you head out. I keep everything in a bag by the door, so when it’s time to go, I just grab it and leave. It’s a small habit, but it saves time and frustration.
Tip #9: Prioritize Leaving Over Multitasking
It’s tempting to squeeze in one last task before you leave, whether it’s sending off an email or folding laundry. But those “quick” tasks often end up making you late. A better strategy? Get to your destination first, and then handle those tasks while you wait. You’ll still be productive, and you won’t be late.
Tip #10: Have a Backup Plan
Even with the best-laid plans, things can go wrong. Whether it’s a missed bus, a canceled train, or an unexpected detour, having a backup plan can save you from stress. I always keep Uber or Lyft as a backup when public transportation is involved. It’s like having an extra safety net when things don’t go as planned.
Final Thoughts
Arriving on time isn’t just a matter of luck it’s about developing habits that make punctuality easy. Whether it’s adding a few minutes to your travel time, keeping your gas tank full, or using GPS for even familiar routes, these small changes can have a big impact. Try incorporating one or all of these tips into your routine, and you’ll be surprised how much easier it is to show up on time, every time.
So, what do you think? Ready to become the person who’s always punctual? Give these tips a try and see how they work for you!
