URGENT UPDATE: New insights reveal that chronic lateness may be more than just poor manners—it could be linked to a condition known as time blindness. Mental health experts are raising awareness about this phenomenon, which is often associated with ADHD and affects time management, potentially impacting social and professional lives.
Recent discussions on social media platforms, including TikTok, have highlighted time blindness, suggesting it could explain why some individuals consistently struggle to arrive on time. This issue, often dismissed as rudeness, is gaining traction as a legitimate neurological concern. As Stephanie Sarkis, a psychotherapist based in Florida, explained to the Associated Press, “Anyone can have issues with running late, but for those with ADHD, there’s functional impairment that affects all areas of life.”
The concept of time blindness isn’t new. Renowned clinical neuropsychologist Russell Barkley has linked ADHD and temporal impairment for decades. However, the term is now being applied more broadly, stirring debate among experts.
In a revealing account, Alice Lovatt, a musician and group-home worker from Liverpool, shared her experience of time blindness. Diagnosed with ADHD in her early 20s, Lovatt expressed, “I just don’t seem to have that clock that ticks by in my head.” This realization transformed her perspective on her chronic lateness, which she previously viewed as a personal failure.
While some may genuinely struggle with time perception, others may not have ADHD. Jeffrey Meltzer, another Florida therapist, pointed out that various factors contribute to tardiness. For some, the fear of awkward small talk leads them to arrive late, while others may feel overwhelmed by schedules and steal time back where they can—a behavior akin to “revenge bedtime procrastination.”
However, not all lateness can be attributed to neurological conditions. Meltzer cautioned that habitual tardiness, especially when paired with patterns of special treatment, may stem from a sense of entitlement. “Maybe they’re 20, 30 minutes late, and it’s like, ‘Oh, look who is here,’” he noted, indicating that some individuals may seek attention through their lateness.
Despite the complexities surrounding time blindness, experts agree that accountability remains crucial. While accommodations can assist those with ADHD, they do not negate the impact on others’ time. As Sarkis clarified, “Accommodations help, but they don’t cancel the impact on other people’s time.”
Practical solutions to mitigate chronic lateness include setting external timers, creating checklists, and realistically estimating task durations. Lovatt shared her method of breaking mornings into minute-by-minute steps, stating, “It doesn’t work, like, 100 percent of the time, but generally, I am a lot more reliable now.”
The conversation around time blindness sheds light on the varied reasons behind chronic lateness, prompting a call for empathy rather than frustration. Understanding the underlying causes can foster compassion, but it does not excuse the inconvenience caused to others.
As this awareness grows, society may need to reconsider its approach to those who struggle with time management. The impact of chronic lateness is undeniable, and recognizing time blindness as a legitimate issue could lead to more supportive environments for those affected.
Stay tuned for further developments on this emerging psychological topic as experts continue to explore the implications of time blindness in our daily lives.
