Show of hands, how many of you have waited and waited and waited for a date to show up only to realize they were late, or even worse, they weren’t even going to show up?  I have.  Actually my first date after my divorce was with a gorgeous Spaniard who even text messaged me 20 minutes before we were to meet to confirm and he never showed up.  How rude!  There’s many like him but really, why do that?  Being late or not showing up at all demonstrates a lack of respect for the other person.

So how long do you wait for someone?  It depends on the situation.  I think if it’s a first date, 15 minutes tops.  Why so harsh?  Well, their punctuality shows you how much importance they place on you and the date.  Unless they message or call you to let you know they are on their way, there is nothing that should keep you there.  So do you message them after? No.  The ball is in their court to make it up to you, if you so choose.  I have refused to see people again because they were so late.  Last week was one of those, the “much younger” man was 3 hours late … I told him not to bother, I wasn’t interested.  I tolerate a lot, but not lateness.  I have even limited my interaction with some friends because of this.  I can’t be bothered with people who don’t respect my time.  Harsh? Not at all … it’s all about RESPECT.

Why is dating punctuality so important? … here are two good reasons:

• Punctuality demonstrates respect for the other person/people and shows others you have self-discipline and organizational ability.
• Being constantly late shows a character flaw and that you don’t know how to manage your time which affects your personal and professional growth.

Are you someone who struggles with punctuality?  Think about it from the waiting person’s perspective.  How does it make them feel?  It makes them feel not important enough to you.  Is that your intention?  Perhaps not, but eventually people will stop inviting you to the party if you’re the one who’s always late.  Dates won’t wait for you or want to see you.  Time management is an essential part of being a mature adult – plain and simple.  What I do to ensure my punctuality is put alarms on my telephone when I have to be somewhere so I’m not late.  You could give that a go.

When you’re dating, always keep your appointments and make sure to let your date know if you’re running late or can’t make it.  In the end it will help your relationship success!

Happy Dating!

Your Sister in Dating Bliss,

Single Dating Diva

Copyright Single Dating Diva

Originally Published on Singles Warehouse