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Scheduling and Time Management
Answer: For most of us, whether or not we are timely is usually considered a character trait. You are either punctual, just a bit late, consistently late or completely off the boards missing events totally. Fact of the matter is, timeliness is a dying art these days. Etiquette guides will tell you that arriving late is not only rude, it is makes a statement about how you feel about the importance of an event or the individuals involved. Real life tells us that no matter how hard we try, sometimes we are late. Have you ever noticed that when you are late, you feel anxious? For those who are always late, this can mean just a constant level of tension during transitions.
So how's a girl to win? Try these steps for one full week and you'll feel yourself relaxing as you go.
Step 1: When noting events in your Planner, remember that you need to allow travel time for everything, be it family, work or outside events. Back all times up by 15 minutes, so if piano starts at 4:00 p.m. and you need 10 minutes to get there, don't leave at 3:50 p.m., instead leave at 3:35 p.m. This gives you a built in window for unexpected events like traffic and gives you time to get acclimated once you arrive. Most of us handle transition better when it is not rushed.
Step 2: Notice there is no mention of last minute phone calls and conversations above. When leaving your office or home, don't answer the phone if it rings, period. When leaving another location where a friend has stopped you, say "It would be great to visit later, as I've got to pick Rachel up from piano lessons across town. How about you call me tomorrow during my lunch hour...I'll just eat in." Write your phone date in your planner as soon as you get in the car. If you are leaving from the office and you have a cell phone, use your transit time and call the colleague from the road. Because you are arriving 15 minutes early, you can also dial while you wait.
Saying no can be tough, but remember, whether or not you arrive on time is a direct reflection of your respect for the individuals and events involved. Their time is just as valuable as yours, and children need to know that they are a priority equally important as others you might have. Think of it like this, when you have a big meeting, you know you can't be late, so you aren't. You do whatever you have to and get there. Your children are no different. Choose to arrive early and you're sure to be on top of your game!
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