Along my coaching and mentoring journey I once heard something that has stayed with me for many years, ‘You’re can be just in time to be too late!’
What does this mean?
Well, in this article I would like to explore the meaning behind probably one of the most influential statements I have ever heard.
But first let me talk about integrity. Integrity is about being your truth (even when no-one’s watching!) It’s about doing the right thing, playing above the line… The fact is you’re either in or out, there is no in between, or ‘trying’ to be in integrity.
Sincerity on the other hand is ‘trying’ to be in integrity. If you think about it, when you sign a letter with yours sincerely, generally this is when you don’t know the recipient well. What you are saying is I don’t necessarily know you personally nor do you know me, so it’s impossible for you get my integrity until we develop a relationship. I therefore, ‘intend’ to be in integrity until such times as this is a given, ‘yours sincerely’.
Being on time in your work and life in my view, is about integrity, NOT sincerity. You’re either on time or you’re not!
Of course from time to time extreme circumstances beyond your control will impact your ‘being on time’ however, in my experience managing and working with many, many staff, practitioners and patients those ‘extreme circumstances’ are rare. I’m talking about your car suddenly not starting, a child suddenly not well, an accident or even near death experience.
In the main, you are either on time or your not, and that’s it!
Let’s talk about your clients or patients and the impact they’re being late has on your schedule. You’ve heard all the excuses, and I know you would agree only a small % are legitimate. You would notice most patients don’t tell the truth, particularly if they are trying to avoid your late fees. This is most obvious when your grade A’s are always on time even in circumstances that would ordinarily deter someone else.
Being on time is a choice. Being in integrity is a choice. Don’t confuse them with sincerity which is a promise to be on time or in integrity. No one cares about your intention or promise, they just want you to do it.
Being on time speaks mountains about who you are as a person, you’re commitment and respect to yourself and those around you and your engagement both with the present moment and the future you want.
You’re either in or out, and if you’re out, one day I guarantee ‘you will be just in time to be too late!’
About the author:
Dr. Andrew Arnold (Chiropractor) is a Chiropractic Doctor, and Owner, Cranbourne Family Chiropractic and Wellness Centre. He is also a Wellness Leader Mentor working with the Wellness Leadership Revolution and running his own program, the Million Dollar Wellness Practice. Andrew shares this ownership with his wife, Dr. Linda Wilson.
www.cranbournefamilychiro.com.au
www.drandrewarnold.com