Indian Standard Time... Why are we always late?
We’ve all heard of Indian Standard Time - and no, I don’t mean the actual time zone in India. I’m talking about the tongue-in-cheek reference to the habit of being consistently late to social events.
It’s even in Urban Dictionary!
Indian Standard Time – Urban Dictionary
Whether it's a birthday, baby shower, or any desi get-together, it's common to see people strolling in 30 minutes to an hour late… or worse, just before the event ends. Why? What’s the point?
Sure, being late once in a while due to unavoidable situations! Totally understandable. But when it becomes a cultural expectation, something we’re known for, that’s a problem.
And let’s be real. Showing up late doesn't just cause stress for the host. It stresses us out too. The rush, the guilt, the awkward entrance - not fun.
We Preach Punctuality... But Do We Practice It?
We expect our kids to be on time. For school, for tennis lessons, for debate club. We tell them to sleep on time, set alarms, and manage their schedule.
But what about us?
Kids learn by watching us, not by listening to us.
(Yes, this is scientifically proven - actions > words.)
As a Desi girl (or Desri 😊), I’ve always tried to be on time. I’m usually never more than 10 minutes late and sometimes, I’m the only one there on time! It used to feel awkward, like I was the odd one. Now I wear it as a badge of honor.
Because honestly, when an Indian says “5 minutes,” it could mean 30…. lol
And sometimes we carry that mindset into the workplace, too.
Ever heard: “I’ll send you the file in 5 minutes…”
...and you're still waiting 45 minutes later?
Why Are We So Chill About Time?
Are we taking it for granted?
If the event start time is clearly mentioned, why not plan just a little bit so we can be there on time?
What Helps Me Stay Punctual:
Plan ahead – Know what you're wearing, check directions, account for traffic. If I’m bringing kids, I plan their clothes too. If they’re staying home, I plan their meals. A little prep goes a long way.
Shift your mindset – It’s not okay to be late. Being early or on time shows respect to the host (and lowers your stress too!). Just because most guests show up late doesn’t mean you have to.
Avoid distractions – No YouTube shorts, Instagram scrolling, or TikTok black holes 30 minutes before an event. Set a reminder. Use tech to help, not delay you.
Build the habit – The first few times are tough. But like any good habit, it gets easier. Eventually, it becomes second nature.
Being late, or giving others unrealistic timelines, chips away at trust, respect, and credibility and honestly, that costs more than we realize.
Let’s flip the script.
Imagine if Desis were known for being the most punctual!! How refreshing would that be?
We can absolutely do it and set an example for our kids and our community.
Over to You!
Do you know someone who’s always on time or (gasp!) early?
Forward them this post and tell them they’re an inspiration.
Or hit reply and tell me what you do to stay on track or where you still struggle.
I’d love to hear your stories.
Signing out,
Sana