What to Do When You Are Always Running Late

Chronic lateness is usually not about laziness or disrespect. It is about consistently underestimating how long things take. You think getting ready takes 15 minutes when it actually takes 30. You forget about traffic, parking, or walking time.

The fix is simple but uncomfortable: add 50% to every time estimate. Set alarms for departure time, not arrival time. And reframe being early — it is not wasted time. It is peace of mind, a few quiet minutes with a coffee, and the rare gift of not starting every meeting flustered.