Learning to appreciate Italian time

By Callie Cothran

Clock tower in Capri, Italy

I am used to being ruled by a clock. I am always at least a few minutes early, and I panic when I’m not (even more so when I’m running late). If I have a schedule I try my best to stick to it. If I’m late to a meeting or a class, I become extremely embarrassed and ashamed that I have kept someone waiting or have interrupted a lecture in progress. I am at the mercy of time.

I’ve noticed here in Italy that things do not run quite the same as they do in the States. Time is a more fluxual entity, where meetings and deadlines become less important. Being on time is not the biggest concern of each individual here. Everyone just goes with the flow. However, going with the flow is obviously not my strong point.

While Italians walk at an easy pace, not in a hurry to get to where they are going, I have a constant speed walk going even if I have no reason to be in a hurry. This breakneck walk has gotten me several stares from locals here in Viterbo, with the occasional raised eyebrow and confused look as if to say “Where’s the fire?” as I speed by. The very American need to get where I’m going quickly and on time is engraved into me like a commandment, though I’ve tried my hardest to relax and do it “the Italian way.”

Sure the general lack of concern with being on time has put me on edge on more than one occasion, but if I could learn to be a little more relaxed, I think I would enjoy life more. It’s amazing what you can notice around you when you just let go and take in the world around you, rather than live with blinders to get you to your next destination.