We’ve all been there—running late for plans with friends or family, thinking, “It’s no big deal, right?” Well, maybe not. According to modern-day etiquette expert Jenny Dreizen, chronic lateness could be doing more harm than you think. And trust us, it’s not just about showing up a few minutes late—it’s about the message you’re sending.
The Real Problem with Chronic Lateness
Being late occasionally happens to everyone. Traffic, long meetings, or unexpected life stuff—it’s normal. But if you’re always late, it could be seen as disrespectful. Dreizen explains that chronic lateness can make people feel their time isn’t unimportant. Even if you don’t mean it, showing up late over and over can come off as self-centered.
Your friends might start thinking, “If they can’t prioritize my time, do they even care?” Not exactly the vibe you want to give off.
Why It Matters
It’s easy to brush off lateness with, “Life happens.” And sure, life does happen! But Dreizen highlights that consistent lateness can exhaust your friends or family, even if your intent isn’t bad. In relationships—whether it’s with friends, family, or even at work—being on time shows that you respect their time and energy.
How to Break the Habit
Not great at time management? Do not sweat it. Dreizen suggests planning. Set alarms, leave early, or bring something to keep you occupied if you are too early. It’s not about being perfect, but making an effort can go a long way. Plus, communicating when you are running behind can help avoid frustrating people. A quick, “Hey, I’m running 10 minutes late!” text is way better than just leaving someone hanging.
When Being Late Is Okay
Sometimes, lateness is unavoidable, like when you’re dealing with new babies, health issues, or other life changes. In those cases, it’s important to offer yourself and others some grace. Dreizen says empathy goes a long way, especially during challenging times.
So next time, before you hit “snooze” or lose track of time, think about how showing up on time can keep your relationships strongs.
