Khaberni - The term "time myopia" is used to describe the condition of not adhering to schedules, which is associated with time passing unnoticed. Russell Barkley, a specialist in clinical neuropsychology at the University of Massachusetts, coined the term in 1997.
Stimulant medications prescribed for attention deficit symptoms help reduce time myopia.
"Time myopia" refers to the difficulty in estimating the time needed to complete tasks or the time elapsed. This disorder has long been associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and in some cases, autism.
However, recently, this concept has gained media traction, sparking a discussion about the fine line between a medically recognized condition and behavior that others see as disorganized.
According to "MSN Health", experts say that "time blindness" is related to executive functions in the frontal lobe of the brain, and is a well-documented feature of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Dysfunction
Stephanie Sarkis, a psychotherapist and author of "10 Simple Solutions to Adult ADD" explains: "Anyone can have problems with lateness, but with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, there's a functional dysfunction".
She added: "It affects family and social life, work, money management, and all aspects of life".
Is Diagnosis an Excuse?
Sarkis says that if chronic latecomerism is "a symptom among others", it could indicate a treatable condition.
Nevertheless, she emphasizes that not everyone who is late has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or has a ready excuse.
She points to research showing that stimulant medications prescribed for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder symptoms, such as inattention or insomnia, may also help reduce time myopia.
Reasons for Frequent Delays
Jeffrey Meltzer, a psychologist in the United States who works with individuals having difficulties with time commitments, says it's important to understand the underlying reasons behind frequent lateness.
Some people avoid arriving early because they dislike small talk, which is often linked to anxiety. Others may feel a loss of control over their lives, using lateness to regain a sense of independence.
He adds: "It's the same psychological idea behind revenge bedtime procrastination", referring to staying up late to reclaim personal time after a busy workday.
He suggests using a simple "confrontation card", where one side faces the underlying fear, while the other reminds of the consequences of being late. For example: one could write: "Attending this meeting does not mean I lose my freedom". And on the other side, it could say: "Being late again will upset my colleagues at work".
Feeling of Entitlement
He says: "Addressing tardiness driven by a sense of entitlement is harder. Those who feel their time is more important than others might give themselves permission to be late, often accompanied by other behaviors indicating a sense of superiority".
The experts say: "Tools used to help individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder are beneficial for anyone experiencing time management issues".
