Be On Time
Being on time and prepared are important qualities that help you stay on track. It might be impossible to always be on time, but you can still be on time very often. All it takes is a little preparation and foresight, and you can be the first person in your class or at your appointments!
When you agree to meet someone at a specific time, you are also making a commitment to them. This is why being on time is not only important to you and your schedule, but others too. When you are late, you can make everyone else waste their own time. When you make the effort to be on time, you can make it easier for others to do their work and for everyone to stay on schedule. This is a valuable way to show your appreciation, responsibility, and respect, to your peers, teachers, and others.
The Importance of Being on Time
What does it mean to be on time? Some might say walking into class the moment you hear the bell ring is being on time, while others may say it is arriving a little early. Generally speaking, being on time means arriving just before the start of your activity. This gives you enough time to get settled and ready for your tasks.
For example, before a doctor’s appointment, you may need to fill out some forms. This is why you try to arrive a few minutes early. This way, you can fill out your forms and have them ready for when your appointment starts, so you don’t waste any time. Similarly, you are supposed to reach a little before the start of your martial arts class, since you will need time to change, put away your things, and warm up before practice.
You may feel like being on time means always being in a rush, but it’s actually the opposite! When you are diligent with your time management and you aim to always be on time, you won’t have to worry about rushing every again.
Tips on How to Be on Time
Sometimes, you really can’t help being a little late. You may leave on time, but there might be unexpected traffic, or you may be going to a new destination and get lost. These are natural parts of life and should be accepted with good humor. However, if you often find yourself late for different activities, you may have a problem with time management. There are many ways you can combat this.
Firstly, leave a little early so you have more time to get there. At worst you will reach a little early, at best you may reach on time after being stuck in an unexpected situation. By starting your day a little early, you can take your time to get ready and reach your destination with ease.
Secondly, consider keeping a detailed schedule. If you forget you have martial arts practice on a particular day, you may forget to get ready on time. This will make you late and keep you back. By keeping a detailed schedule, you will always know what to expect.
Lastly, don’t procrastinate! When you procrastinate, you avoid doing things and end up behind your schedule. This means you will often be late and unprepared. For example, if you know you have martial arts class tomorrow, you should pack your equipment tonight.
