Is Germany’s legendary punctuality fading with younger generations?
Punctuality has long been seen as a core German trait, but attitudes appear to be shifting. While over 90% of adults in the country still describe themselves as punctual, fewer now believe it defines German culture. A growing generational divide is also emerging, with younger people less likely to call themselves on time.
A recent survey reveals that only 78% of Germans now associate punctuality with their national identity. This marks a drop from 90% in 2017. At the same time, 70% of adults feel that people today are less punctual than in previous generations.
Younger adults, in particular, are less inclined to claim punctuality for themselves. They also tend to be slightly more forgiving when others are late. Even so, lateness remains a widespread annoyance across all age groups. Psychologist Marc Wittmann notes that many individuals overestimate their own time management skills. He suggests that self-perception often doesn’t match reality. The way punctuality is judged also varies between work and personal life. Being late can signal how much—or how little—someone values the person or event they’re meeting. The act of making someone wait may carry unspoken meaning. It can leave people feeling undervalued or unimportant, depending on the context.
The stereotype of German punctuality remains strong, but the data points to gradual change. Fewer people now see it as a defining national trait, and generational differences are becoming clearer. While most still value being on time, perceptions of lateness—and its consequences—continue to evolve.
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