The value of timekeeping
Being punctual can help you feel calm and organised.
Are you often late for things and wish you could be more on time? Lots of people find it difficult to be on time, so as school term starts, clubs reopen and you are able to meet up with friends and family again, it’s good to brush up on timekeeping skills.
What does being punctual mean?
Being punctual means being able to arrive somewhere, complete a task or meet someone at an agreed time. Examples include getting to your classroom before the lesson starts; handing in your homework on time; or arriving at a friend’s house when you say you’ll be there. Being punctual allows you to be more organised and prepared, and it shows that you value other people’s time as well as your own.
Why is it important to be on time?
Have you ever run around looking for your bag and shoes, when you should already be on your way to school? Being late can feel stressful, not only for yourself but for the people around you. It also makes it easy to forget something important. “When I’m late I feel unorganised and panicky,” says The Week Junior reader Freddie (12). “But when I’m on time I’m more relaxed because I don’t have to run around looking for things. I can make the most of what I’m doing.” Being on time also makes you feel more prepared. Finishing a project early gives you extra time to make improvements. Packing your sports kit or costumes the night before a match or performance allows you to feel calmer and more focused the next day. By being punctual, you’re telling yourself that your time matters, and you’re showing other people that you’re reliable and you respect their time too.
How can I be more punctual?
Grace Pacie is an author who writes about lateness. She believes there are lots of reasons why people aren’t punctual. Some aren’t good at measuring time; others dislike being early and waiting around. Pacie believes you can learn to be more punctual by arranging to meet a friend on the way to school or a club because this will make you get out of the door earlier. Or if you don’t like waiting around, try arriving early but fill your time with something interesting like listening to music or reading a book. It’s not always easy to change timekeeping habits but taking small steps towards becoming more punctual can help you feel calmer and more organised.