Time is on my side

Different perspectives on time: linear, multi-active, cyclic

Situation discussed in lesson 10

Cultural dimensions and theory discussed in lesson 10

• Blue or linear-active cultures are pretty strict about time. Time is linear. For Americans especially, time flows fast. If you want to benefit from its passing, you have to be fast yourself, you have to move fast with time. The past is already over, that is behind us, but the present can seize and you can make the most of it. You can influence the near future by acting now. People from blue cultures prefer to do one thing a time.
• Then there are cultures that are 'red' or multi-active. They do not prefer to do only one thing at a time. Not the clock but relationships, events, the present as it is unfolding are most important. Schedules and punctuality are not considered most important of all. Having and finishing a great conversation with a friend or business partner is important. Leaving a conversation unfinished because a next appointment is scheduled is 'not done'.
• Yellow cultures have a cyclic view of time. Time has a rythm, there are natural and other cycles that dictate our lives. In yellow cultures it is not so much the idea that the clock, the schedule, relationships or events are most important. Cycles of the heavenly bodies and other bodies have always influenced our lives and will always do so. Many Asians (most yellow cultures are in Asia, as you will remember) don't see time as racing away unitilized in a linear future, but coming around again in cycles. The same opportunities, risks and dangers will present themselves time and again.

Sequential vs. synchronic

The blue way of viewing time is often compared to the red and yellow feelings about time. Red and yellow are seen together and call 'synchronic' time. The blue way of viewing time is then called 'sequential', which means about the same as in a linear order.