I almost give a mulligan the first time around, regardless of the circumstance, because I know how harrowing it can be to start off a potentially new relationship on the wrong foot. But tardiness is a big pet peeve of mine. I don't accept the conventional "women take longer to get ready" excuse -- just start getting ready sooner. Tardiness is rude and inconsiderate. To take that to the next level, it can sometimes be a symptom of someone with control issues.

I don't understand people on online dating sites -- such as the eHarmony first questions -- who mention their frequent tardiness almost as a badge of honor. Why not do something about it?