Punctuality is considered to be the noblest of virtues. It is the mark of civilized and cultured people. It is the habit of doing things in correct time.
One of the greatest values of punctuality is that it gives discipline to life. It dispels laziness and removes our ‘take-it-easy- attitude’. A disciplined person always gets recognition and social acceptance. Therefore, punctuality can make us socially acceptable people.
Another significant merit of punctuality is that it provides ample time to do our work correctly and properly. Doing things hurriedly or haphazardly can have disastrous consequences. When we do things in time, there is every chance that they end up as fine works.
The virtue of punctuality is said to be the key to success. Look at the great world leaders who have achieved fame and success. Punctuality was their hallmark. Washington once took his secretary to task for being late. The secretary laid the blame upon his watch. Washington reported: “Then, Sir either you must get a new watch or I must get a new secretary.”
When individuals are not punctual, they cause a lot of inconvenience to others. People have to wait for them and waste their valuable time. Want of punctuality reveals want of culture and make to the person discourteous all.
History is full of cases which show that lack of punctuality has caused defeat, loss of kingdom and golden opportunities. It is said that Napoleon lost the battle of Waterloo in 1815 because one of his generals came late.
All of us are not born with the virtue of punctuality. We have to cultivate it painstakingly. Only constant, vigil and practice can implant this virtue.
It calls for great deal of sacrifice, courage to root out laziness. It demands a disciplined life. That is why, very few individuals have the virtue of punctuality.
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