Steven Robbins here. Welcome to the get it done guys, quick and dirty tips to work less and do more.

Listener Anna wrote in, no matter how early I get up, I can never be, not even early, but on time to whatever I have to do.

Is there a way I can change, or am I doomed for life?

Anna, the quick and dirty tip is that you can learn to use mental timelines and alarm clocks

to get places on time.

People think about time differently.

Some people, maybe you, have timelines you live. You're always late, but you're always

vibrantly alive. Rather than seeing your life objectively, you see the future in front of you,

the past in the back, and you're actually living in the timeline. Yeah, you may see only a bit

ahead or a bit behind you, but you're living in the now.

I'll bet you're aware of your body, the world around you, and what's actually going on.

My mental timeline is like a day planner.

Yesterday is to my left, tomorrow is to my right.

Each day has little colored bars showing appointments.

I also have weekly, monthly, and yearly timelines,

all color-coded to keep life sorted out. It's very convenient. It's great for planning years in

advance and worrying. Since my plans are so clearly laid out, and since nothing ever goes

according to plan, this is a very efficient way to make sure I worry enough.

But I am on time. I'm stuck worrying about my 3 o'clock appointment next Thursday. You live

your life. My way is great for getting places on time, but it sucks for enjoying the moment.

Our culture, however, values punctuality over vitality. Good for me,

sucks to be you. But here's how you can be vital and punctual. I'm still searching for how I can

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