On time

January 2nd, 2026

Being on time is fine until it becomes insufficient, and then being before time is applied. Being on time is fine until it becomes an obsession and the perogative changes from being on time to being before time. I think I am standing right on the cusp of always being on time being changed to the need to be before time. So, I am very close to accepting another obsession into my life. I am not sure that is a good idea.

I don't remember being late, ever. It must have happened at some point in my life, but I cannot recall such an occurrence. But if it ever happened, then I would remember it as a shameful episode, so since I don't remember anything like that, that can only mean I was never late, ever. I think I should be proud of that. Except — being on time, not being late for any kind of appointment or event, seems now as cutting it too close. Which means I have to be there some time before the appointed time. 5 minutes before doesn't seem sufficient, 10 minutes is better, but 15 minutes is even safer — which means I will arrive where I need to be on the specific time about 20 minutes before. Or half an hour just to be absolutely safe. For example, today at 12.30 I have an appointment at the auto mechanic’s. The drive there will take 10 minutes at most. But it is snowing, and even though I prepared and cleaned my car a few hours ago, I am already (slowly) getting ready to leave. It’s now 11.00…

That might be too much, but I don't think I'll change it. It might be ridiculous, but it makes me feel better, so I don't want this change. I will continue arriving way before the appointed time.