Five Simple Ways to Always be on Time

   

Being on time is one of the most common stereotypes of women and nine times out of ten, we are always late. Myself included. This is my top goal for 2014. As a professional corporate women, being early to meetings is the same as being on time. You don't every want your customer waiting on you and furthermore, on a personal level, you don't want your friends waiting on you. Remember everyone is busy, not just you.

I've been working on being more prompt and here are five easy ways that you can be on time to your next meeting or girl's night out!

1. More clocks - this might seem silly, but when you're aware of the time you'll start to move a little faster. A friend of mine has a sport's watch in the shower, which is brilliant for the modern day woman who's doing ten things at once. If you have 30 minutes to get ready, you should probably take a 8-10 minute shower. Put clocks in your bathroom, vanity area, living room, kitchen, hallway and last, your wrist. Wear a watch, don't rely on your cellphone. It will be hard to lose track of time hanging over you head.

2. Minimal makeup- have a simple makeup routine. When I'm running late I put on face powder, bronzer, mascara and apply lip gloss when I'm walking out the door. You can always bring the rest of your makeup with you. When you have time later in the day, slip into the bathroom and freshen up.

3. Plan to arrive 30 minutes early - we've all heard to plan on arriving 15 minutes early. But if you're always 15 minutes late, doesn't that set you right at the time you're suppose to arrive? I aim to arrive 30 minutes early. Especially when you're traveling. You never know what' roadblocks you have ahead of you. 

4. Put down the cell phone- limit your distractions. Turn off your music, don't answer calls or text messages. Think about how much time it takes you to get your cell phone, put in password, reply back and wait for someone's response...a few minutes. Wait till you've arrived to your destination and reply back. However, if you are running late, make sure to let the person you're meeting know as soon as possible. 

5.  Wear all black- I know it seems boring, but everyone looks good in black. Throw a necklace or earrings into your purse and put on accessories later. When I'm running late, I spend most of my time figuring out what to wear...nothing seems to look good. Remember, no matter the occasion, go for all black! 

One last thing, when you arrive to a meeting, date, lunch, dinner or wherever (if you're on time or early) no need to explain you were running around crazy to get to your destination on time. Take five deep breathes and walk slowing and you'll always look polished and poised...it's all about perception.