When My Time Isn’t Your Time

Time is a culturally bound concept. Hispanic, Arab, African and Asian cultures are polychronic. They see time as fluid and flexible, with schedules secondary to relationships. American culture, on the other hand, is monochronic. Time as rigid and inflexible, with punctuality, deadlines and schedules highly valued.

Monochronic Cultures:

• English speaking cultures, Northern Europe
• Are sequential and linear
• Do one thing at a time
• See time as a limited resource to be managed
• Dislike interruptions and digression and focus on completing the task
• Time commitments (deadlines, schedules, appointments) very important
• Are low-context
• Follow set plans
• Accustomed to short-term relationships

Polychronic Cultures:

• Hispanic, Arab, African, Asian cultures
• Are multi-track and circular
• Do many things at once. Time for different tasks can overlap,  as long as all tasks get done.
• View time as abundant.
• Are relationship oriented: Interruptions are normal, expected and often welcome.
• Fulfilling time commitments depending on circumstances and relationship.
• Change plans often and easily when circumstances change.