The terms Monochronic and Polychronic are used to describe how different people perceive time and how they manage it. Monochronic being more common in Western areas due to peoples operating with their activities in a structured and scheduled in a linear fashion. Both efficiency and economic progress are stressed. In contrast Polychronic cultures tend to be more fluid and less structured. Typically found in Asia, Africa and Latin America, it is not uncommon for people to multitask as well as allow relationships, alternatives and mood to take precedence over work.
After taking the quick survey I found that I scored a 50, placing me into the Monochronic category in the B to C range. According to the survey I’m not an extremist however I still display the characteristics of a Monochronic. I am Monochronic because I enjoy being on time to things, sticking to plans, and getting things done.
I was interesting to me that Western cultures are labels as Monochronic because in recent years, at least people of my age group have been displaying what I consider to be Polychronic. They are easily distracted from tasks, and change plans often and easily due to cell phones. Maybe my generation carries both traits, placing us more in the middle like my score suggests.
The Irish are similar to Americans in being mainly Monochronic in my opinion. From what I gathered through my experiences, they are not easily distracted and are committed to their work. In contrary they stress less about deadlines and tend to have a more relaxed culture as a result.
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