Why being punctual is so important

In a day and age where ego is at the forefront it is often observed that punctuality is no longer what it used to be. Meetings are postponed, deadlines delayed and promises are not kept. What does this do to our relationships, both privately and professionally?

Punctuality allows for planning

Punctuality allows for planning regardless in what capacity. There are so many examples, such as catching a train, planning a day full of back-to-back meetings or being home in time for dinner. Planning security is important as time is money, whether rebooking a flight, having to cancel the last meeting of the day or simply mismanaging time with family and friends. This is important to understand as your decisions affect those around you.

You are not the center of the universe.

Respect

Oh, how I love this point in today's world. We are more free to do what we want, when we want than in any previous generation. However, most of this freedom is digital. One device, one screen, one human. How wonderful! So, it shouldn't come as a shock when we discuss a simple tone of respect when being punctual. It has almost become culturally accepted to always advise of one's being late. No big deal. Write a short text message, "running late" and my awaited rendez-vous knows to expect me later than agreed upon. This is a wonderful tool for the exception, for the unexpected, but it has unfortunately become the standard. We are able to simply excuse ourselves from a meeting or dinner party with a simple text message. Imagine having to place a phone call or cancel a meeting face to face. You would think twice before doing so. In a day and age before any digital medium was available, meeting up for a bike ride at 6pm at the fence post meant 6pm at the fence post.

This is a wonderful tool for the exception, for the unexpected, but it has unfortunately become the standard.

Punctuality may not mean the same in every culture, but the Swedes are definitely sharing my thoughts about trust and respect.

Reliability

Can you trust someone who is never on time? Perhaps we need to differentiate between a well-known colleague and a new acquaintance. If someone shows up late to a meeting three times in a row, do you still rely on that person to be on time for the fourth meeting? What about completing tasks, projects or simply organising private life. It definitely sets a presedence and not a good one.

All in all...

Being punctual is a good indication of dignity and value. It is one of the simplest promises you make and that you certainly should keep. It means more to others than you may think!

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Quinten T. Slama is an international luxury hotelier having lived on four continents while executing managerial leadership roles in numerous luxury hotel chains and privately-owned hotels. With a bachelor's degree in business administration (economics), Quinten T. Slama has successfully mentored teams in both food & beverage operations and sales & marketing strategy, making his knowledge and insight invaluable in today's swiftly paced global hotel industry.

Born and raised in Canada to German parents, Quinten T. Slama quickly found his passion for travel and since then, has slowly made his way journeying around the world. He enjoys the thrills of getting up close and personal with foreign cultures & cuisine, local traditions and native languages. In his free time he enjoys touring with his BMW motorcycle, horseback riding, experimenting on the grill, playing piano and being "in the moment." He is often described as a modern man with a sense of value for tradition. Quinten T. Slama currently lives in Hamburg, Germany.