TikTok users have found a controversial way to deal with chronically late friends by lying about reservation times to ensure they arrive on time. One viral video showcased this tactic, where a creator’s friends lied about the reservation time, resulting in her arriving right on time instead of half an hour late. While the creator found humor in the situation, the debate in the comment section was fierce, with many viewers expressing their frustration with chronically late individuals. Some viewers even threatened to stop inviting late friends to events.
Etiquette expert Lisa Grotts suggests that friends should have a discussion about what constitutes being on time, as perceptions may vary among individuals. Constant lateness can be seen as disrespectful and may lead to someone being excluded from future events or gatherings. Being consistently late can send a message that one’s time is more important than others, which can strain relationships. While some TikTok users defended late friends and argued that they are trying to help, others expressed concern that lying to accommodate late individuals may not be the best solution.
Indiana University professor Brad Fulton cautions against lying to cover up chronic lateness, as this can lead to a cycle of deception. Taya Cohen, a Carnegie Mellon University professor, also warns about the potential consequences of lying, as it may lead to trust issues within friendships. Confronting friends about their chronic tardiness can be challenging, as some individuals may view punctuality as a cultural value rather than a universal one. It may create tension in friendships and potentially strain relationships further.
While some viewers online advocated for addressing the issue of chronic lateness directly with friends, others suggested that accommodating late individuals may be the easier route. Some individuals admitted to being the late friend themselves and working on improving their habits. Ultimately, the debate over how to deal with chronically late friends on TikTok sparked a discussion about the importance of punctuality in relationships and the potential consequences of being consistently late. Whether lying about reservation times is an effective solution remains up for debate, with experts cautioning against the use of deception to address chronic lateness.
