Whatever happens, some people fail to be on time. So it is true, one can think that they are being flippant, that they are disrespectful to the people they are making wait, as if their time is more important than that of others, or that they want to be desired.

And yet it is not. There are many reasons to be late. “It can be cultural. There are cultures in which arriving on time is not especially important, says Shékina Rochat, PhD in psychology at the University of Lausanne. There are also family models that influence us.”

Some people just have a very poor appreciation of time. They think they’re going to be able to finish a case, get a piece of clothing from the dry cleaner, and get ready in 15 minutes, and that’s how they’re half an hour late. These people are late for everything, the fun or the constraining activities. One stubborn latecomer told me she was late even for her wedding!

Negative consequences

When one is always late, can one regard this as a pathology? Not really, but it’s increasingly frowned upon, because with the explosion of telework and video conferencing since COVID, there is less tolerance for delays.

It is thought that it is easier to manage your time since you no longer have the transport galleys. As a result, we are expected to be more punctual. Being always late is not pathologic in itself. It is not officially recognized as a disorder, although it can have negative consequences in daily life, including at work.

Multiple causes can explain systematic delays

People who are always late may be overly optimistic, underestimating how long things take. Others cannot be on time as they are normally rebellious and do not want to be forced into imposed hours. Or they can’t say no and move backwards. In this case, it is the lack of motivation that prevents us from being on time.

Other chronic laggards are checked for epinephrine. That’s why they’re always running, whether it’s for a job appointment, an exam, a movie or a train ride.

Chronic delays are also common among people with hyperactivity, a disorder characterized by inattention and impulsivity. People tend to engage in several activities at once or to disperse into one task. That makes it harder for them to maintain timing.

What can I do to be more punctual?

If delays are due to organizational problems, one can start by assessing how long things actually take. Shékina Rochat advises to do backshots. You can also try not to be on time, but in advance so as not to be delayed by unforeseen events. Setting alarms can help keep things from getting overwhelmed.

If the delays are not due to poor time management, it is important to consider the motivation, the advantages and disadvantages of chronic delays. As with everything, you won’t change overnight, but you can gradually reconcile yourself with your watch.