The Community for Catholic Moms

Punctuality

Wow, I'm feeling a little guilty today. Twice in the same week it has been brought to my attention by both of my places of employment that my punctuality, (or lack thereof), is becoming a hinderance. Ooops!! I know it's a problem and it has been forever, (especially since my mom is the queen of being late...), but I still feel horrible every time I'm late for something...which is all the time! I really try to be on time, and sometimes I go for a few weeks where I'm pretty darn punctual, but then I always fall back on bad habits.

Does anyone have any motivational advice? I tried to look up the patron saint of punctuality, but I don't think there is one. What about any prayers for punctuality?

Thanks girls, and God bless!!

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Permalink Reply by Erika Marie on June 3, 2010 at 9:17am

yikes, Kristen thanks for sharing this. I definitely don't want to be 'one of those' moms.

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Permalink Reply by Elisa on June 7, 2010 at 7:45am

Well, I'm Swiss and we are practical people =) We also are used to being on time because if the train says it's leaving at noon, it will leave! Haha, so I've not have many problems with being on time. Even before I had my first child, I told myself: "I am NOT going to be late to Mass!" So I just left super early. I would shoot for leaving an hour early for things and then in reality, it would only be about 45 minutes early and I'd get there 10 minutes early, which for me is "on time".

I think you should be practical about it. Figure out why you are late.

-Schedule enough time for everyone in your family to get ready.
-Take into account the time it will take to dress little children, have a non-rushed breakfast and get everyone's teeth brushed.
-It might help to lay out clothes the night before for kids are old enough to get dressed (and for you too, if that is what's making you late).
-Have bags/things ready the night before.
-Take into account the time it will take to GET there: TRAFFIC. Give it LOTS of time.
-In the evening, let the whole family know that you all are leaving at a certain time in the morning.
-In the morning, make sure everyone is up and on a mission: get out the door on time!
-If you are still late - is your family involved in too many activities? Think of slowing down the pace of life for your family.

I have heard it said that people who are late, are actually late because it's not important enough for them to be on time. You may be thinking of reasons to negative this statement, but think about it. No matter why you are late, it tells people that you don't care enough to get there on time.

So, I think you should make it your number one priority to learn how to be on time. Treat it like your mission! Make schedules, allow enough time for tasks and make sure everyone is following the plan. You can do it! All you have to do is pretend you are Mr. Von Trapp and be militant about it - haha =)

You will enjoy life more when you are not rushing all the time.