Have you ever experienced the frustration of attending a presentation that runs beyond its scheduled time, or a meeting delayed due to latecomers? We’ve all been there. It’s important to recognize that failing to meet time commitments not only affects trust and credibility on an individual level, but also reflects on the entire organization’s culture.
Recently, a friend of mine returned from Germany and shared a fascinating observation. In their office, meeting rooms were booked with specific time slots, such as 10:13 am – 11:24 am or 11:26 am – 12:17 pm. This precision was a departure from their previous experiences where time slots were typically rounded off, like 10:00 am – 10:30 am or 10:45 am – 11:15 am.
Time is our most valuable asset. As Chanakya Pandit wisely stated, no amount of wealth can bring back a single moment lost. Every moment wasted represents a loss of our most precious resource. Punctuality is not only a way to honor time, but also a way to honor the people around us. At ISKCON, punctuality and cleanliness are the foundation principles of deity worship. Darshans open and close at precisely fixed times worldwide, with the first Aarti at 4:30 am every day. In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna declares, “I am the time,” highlighting the significance of respecting time as a form of reverence for the divine.
Punctuality also has a profound impact on self-confidence and self-respect. By honoring our commitments and being punctual, we demonstrate our ability to uphold our word. Moreover, punctuality is directly linked to the efficiency of a work culture. In an environment with loose time commitments, there is a drain on energy, resources, and revenues.
The consequences of tardiness multiply when it comes to processes involving multiple individuals. If the first person in a pipeline is late, the productivity of the entire chain suffers. The way we handle time commitments often reflects how we approach various aspects of life. Individuals who struggle with punctuality tend to exhibit scattered and disorganized behavior in other areas as well.
When considering the adverse effects of honoring time, I struggle to identify any beyond the need for increased organization, clarity, and consciousness. Honoring time has far-reaching benefits that extend beyond the immediate task at hand.
While we may not always have the power to change an entire culture’s perception of time commitments, we can lead by example. By honoring others’ time, we honor them as individuals. Simultaneously, we honor ourselves and our own time. It all begins with starting and ending meetings at the agreed-upon time, and ideally, even before.
Let us strive to create a work culture where punctuality is valued and respected. Together, we can build a more efficient, productive, and trustworthy professional environment. Remember, the way we treat time reflects our character and our commitment to success.