The Current People who are always late aren't necessarily jerks (but they might be)
Jan 26, 2026
Dawna Ballard, a University of Texas researcher and author who studies time perception, explores why chronic lateness is not always rudeness. She explains time blindness and time personalities in short, vivid terms. Cultural differences between monochronic and polychronic schedules come up. Practical tips for coping with tardiness are shared.
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Lateness Isn't Always Disrespect
- Chronic lateness isn't strong evidence of disrespect; research shows it's not typically intentional.
- Donna Ballard says some late people may be jerks, but most are shaped by biology or culture.
Time Blindness Is Biological
- Time blindness is a biological experience where people lose track of time and need extra effort to be punctual.
- Donna Ballard compares it to lacking an internal sense of direction and says it's common in neurodivergent people.
Time Personalities Are Multi-Dimensional
- Time personalities span many dimensions like past/present/future focus, punctuality, and multitasking.
- Donna Ballard outlines a 12-dimension model beyond simple mono/poly distinctions.
