We’ve all had our moments when we’ve been punctually challenged but if being late for work is a common occurence, maybe it’s time you follow these tips:
Set aside your outfit the night before so you don’t have to waste precious time in the morning deciding what to wear. Keep important things – such as keys, your phone and wallet – in the same spot. (Most people would prefer putting it on a bedside table or by the front door).
Most people tend to think that they get ready in a shorter amount of time than they actually do. Spend one morning timing your daily routine and then plan your morning accordingly.
We know staying home sounds more enticing than leaving for work but instead of thinking about going to work as a chore, try motivating yourself by reminding yourself that leaving earlier means lesser people on board the bus!
Include the time taken for mundane tasks – such as parking and walking – when planning how early you have to leave the house. These activities will always and definitely throw you off.
Work backwards and calculate exactly how long it will take to reach work. In order to do this, time yourself over a workweek and find the average time taken.
Take the time you’ve calculated (from the earlier tip) and add on 10 minutes. When you plan to reach work 10 minutes earlier, more often than not you’ll arrive right on time.
Instead of replying emails and touching up on your work at home, take them with you. Finish them up on the commute to work or when you reach your destination.
Instead of thinking, “I have to be at work by 9 am.” Tell yourself, “I need to start work at 9 am” There is a difference between being at your desk, ready to start work, versus arriving at work on the dot.
Trying to fit in a couple of minute tasks between small spaces of free time is going to cause tardiness. These tasks will take a longer time than you expect. If you want to get coffee on the way to work, set extra time for it instead of squeezing it in.
If all else fails, set all your home clocks a few minutes early. This sneaky stunt will unknowingly help you leave your house earlier.
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