Arrive to Work on Time

If you find that you’re habitually late to work, you are potentially setting yourself up for consequences that can range from being perceived negatively by your boss and co-workers to losing your job. You owe it to you and your employer to do the responsible thing by getting to work on time. Here are a few tips that can help:

• Get adequate rest: The common recommendation is to get seven to eight hours of sleep each night. By doing so, you should be well rested and able to rise easily each morning.


• Skip the snooze: When your alarm goes off, don’t hit the snooze; instead, get out of bed immediately. A better alternative to the snooze, if you need it, is to strategically place and set a few alarm clocks in your room.


• Get organized the night before: Organize as much as you can the night before to shave off time from your morning routine. Things like setting out your clothes, ironing, making a lunch, and packing your briefcase can be a big help.


• Time your morning routine: Use a day off to do a run through of your typical workday morning routine. Time how long each task takes, on average. Then set your alarm clock to accommodate the time you’ll need for getting ready and commuting to work. Pad that time with an extra 15 to 20 minutes to account for unexpected things that can occur—car trouble, a late bus or train, etc.


• Be grateful to be employed: With unemployment high, remind yourself that you are fortunate to have a job.