If you’re one of those people whose “I’ll be there in five” reliably turns into 15, you’re not alone—and you’re not necessarily careless or inconsiderate, either. Most of us have been late at some point, but some people find themselves constantly running behind.

That discrepancy often begs the question: why do some people seem wired to be late while others treat punctuality like a personal law?

It’s a question that has puzzled behavioral scientists for decades; and the results have, at times, seemed contradictory.

For example, a 2003 Human Performance study found no statistically significant link between chronic lateness and any one personality trait, suggesting punctuality isn’t necessarily a matter of any individual character flaw.

( Does being the oldest or youngest sib

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