Past Orientation implies a belief that everything that can occur has occurred before, and past patterns will be replicated. Understanding the principles and truths of the past can guide current and future experince. Present Orientation implies dominance of the mental state of the moment, perhaps because that is most real or one cannot depend on the future. Future Orientation implies expectancy of advancement, improvement or progression. It enables prediction, scheduling, planning, and changing forthcoming events.
Monochronic time emphasizes schedules, segmentation of time, and promptness.
Events are compartmentalized and concentrated on sequentially, one thing at a time. Only a limited number of events can be scheduled and therefore priorities can be set for people and functions. Polychronic time stresses involvement with people and completion of transactions rather than adherence to a preset shedule. The future is not firm and therefore cannot be planned. Appointments can be broken and plans may be changed right up to their execution.