Always running late? Here's how you can be on time
What's the story
Managing time and being on time to a place is a good quality that everyone needs to learn. It indicates how much you respect your as well as others' time. Besides, being punctual shows that you respect deadlines, are timely, and give clients confidence in your ability to complete their requests. Here are some tips for you to improve your time management.
Tip 1
Analyse time
People often underestimate how long it will take to reach their destination, without taking into consideration the traffic, rain, finding a parking space, or other impediments. Check your route and get an idea of how long it will take you to get there, by keeping in mind all the things you need to accomplish in between. Consider leaving ahead to reach 15 minutes early.
Tip 2
Do not start an enjoyable activity just before your departure
It is not a good idea to start playing your favorite video game or even starting a professional project an hour or so before your scheduled departure. Then, applying the brakes will be difficult. It wouldn't be a surprise if you continued to be engaged in the activity long after you were meant to have left.
Tip 3
Say 'no' to last-minute requests
You may get many last-minute requests while you are preparing to leave your home or workplace. This could be your partner, children, or parents asking you to get something done at home or your boss assigning you a new but brief task. Try to strike those requests that come in the last 5-10 minutes of your leaving time.
Tip 4
Create artificial deadlines
Don't always adhere to the already existing deadlines. Instead, make one your own that is earlier than the original one. If you have to leave for work at 8:00 am, set your personal deadline at 7.30 am. This way, you will be preparing your mind better to finish off tasks beforehand. It will help you leave home without hurrying or panicking.
Tip 5
Check time frequently
This might sound silly but checking time frequently ensures that your day is going as per schedule. Surround yourself with clocks everywhere you go. At your bedroom, living room, and work desk. Instead of relying on your phone, consider checking the time on a watch to avoid distractions. Additionally, wearing a watch signals your brain that you are conscious of time.