Written By: Madison Garner
Contributor | Aston American University
Americans place high value on time and often view time as an important currency. In fact, there’s a popular American saying, “Time is money.” The American approach to time can seem foreign to those from other cultures. Here’s what you should know about how Americans view time.
Time is a Limited Resource. Americans think of time like they think of money. You have a specific amount, and it’s gone after you spend it. This mindset makes time valuable. People are careful with how they spend their time, just like they’re careful with how they spend their money. Americans love reading tips on how to be more productive and get the most out of their time.
Time Should Be Spent Well. Since time is limited, it’s important not to waste it. Everyone has a different view on how they should spend their time of course. Some may want to spend time exercising while others want to spend time playing music. But mostly, everyone wants to use their time wisely. That’s why many Americans are very busy. To feel that they use their time well each day, they want to fit in as many activities and accomplishments as possible.
Doing Nothing is Usually Seen as Bad. Americans tend to focus on leisure time and relaxing less than other cultures. Even when Americans relax, it is usually scheduled time in between activities. A lazy Sunday afternoon spent doing nothing at all wouldn’t be viewed as a needed break, it would be seen as a poor use of time. College students often joke about “Netflix binging” (sitting and watching TV for several hours in a day), but it’s a joke because spending that much time watching TV without being productive is counter-cultural.
Scheduling is Common. Many Americans are so busy; they do not have much opportunity for spontaneous social gatherings. It is common to schedule times to socially meet with people as a way to ensure these meetings take place. Instead of saying, “Let’s get coffee sometime.” Say, “Let’s get coffee tomorrow at noon.” The person may really want to spend time with you, but if you are too general and not specific, this person could accidentally forget about you because of their busy schedule. If you want to spend time with someone, it is best to be specific and include a day and time.
Punctuality is Important. There’s a saying about being polite that many Americans agree with: early is on time, and on time is late. If people agree to meet up for a movie at 7:30, it is best to show up a few minutes before 7:30. Americans would view time waiting for everyone to arrive as time wasted, and being late is often seen as a sign of disrespect. Not every American views punctuality this way, but most do.
Chat Club: Are you early, late or on time? Why is it important to be on time?
