If the answer is yes and no; then it’s time to get organised.

Whatever excuses spring to mind, the vast majority of the time that we fail to be punctual, it’s because we don’t plan properly. We didn’t leave early enough for our destination. We didn’t work out a timetable earlier in the day (and stick to it). Or some other reason over which we could have exercised control but didn’t.

According to the Lawyerist (and common sense) when you’re punctual, you’re less stressed, more organized, and in greater control. So here are some tips for the eternally tardy:

1. Get organised. Use calendar reminders and alarms in whatever diary system you use for your calendar appointments.

2. Get help. Let colleagues know that you’re working on being punctual. Have your assistant proactively manage your appointments and remind you of what’s coming up on your calendar.

3. Get real. Bin the stock phrases and check the words that come out of your mouth. Revise them in the moment if necessary. “I’ll call you back in five minutes . . . . Let’s meet in 10….” Aim to have the first words out of your mouth be accurate and achievable, but if you’re breaking old habits, managing expectations with a quick adjustment right there and then is better than not meeting your commitment later.

4. Get superhuman. Or just don’t schedule appointments back to back without taking into account transition time (whether that’s travel time or prep time).

Sorted. Now be on time.