6 Techniques for getting to work, meetings or appointments on time

Reviewing the schedule the night before

Make sure you wake up at the appropriate time if it’s a morning meeting or you have to commute. Having a schedule keeps me on my toes. It doesn’t need to be set-in-stone nor do you need to be over-analyzing the schedule the night before. I simply review what I have to do the next day so I know what meetings I have in my head and plan accordingly.

“Drive-time”

Los Angeles is one of the busiest places. Whenever I had to drive on the freeway (which was most of the time), I factored in the driving time or possible traffic/ accident time. This meant usually I might get to my destination early, but it was okay. I didn’t feel like I was wasting time because I brought something to read or do.

Don’t do things to delay time before meetings

Avoid starting projects right before a meeting or checking your email. Whenever I go somewhere, I try not to do things. It might sound obvious, but it is easy to get distracted from all the things we have to do.

Be disciplined

“One more thing..” could just be the one more minute that contributes to being late. If projects really need to be done, setting alarms to alert you can be helpful. The alarm is the ultimatum. You have to go when the alarm rings.

Think about the consequences

Being late to a meeting or appointment has consequences. It not only hurts your reputation, but also makes people that are waiting for you irritated. If it’s doctor’s appointments, there may be financial costs involved. It is my pet peeve when people are late. I understand that there are circumstances that come our way, but in that case I feel a simple call is much appreciated. Also the person waiting won’t worry that something bad happened. However, when it is a chronic lateness, I often question the person.

On the other hand, the benefits of getting to meetings on time!

There are many! You will not offend anyone. You look responsible, trustworthy, and have other positive attributes. Basically there’s nothing to lose from being punctual.