Well since we’re off topic, I may as well continue.
I know a lot of people who live by CP Time, or whatever the vernacular may be for their particular culture that involves seeing times as approximations, as opposed to a very strict, written-in-stone deadlines. I have learned to adjust my arrival time based on people’s expectations.
For example, I was just talking to my German* friend last night, and at one point said one thing I like about him as that he’s never on time for anything. I really meant that, and he understood. He’s never ridiculously late, but he, much like I, think “7ish” is a perfectly reasonable time to set for something, and that it’s a window, and people should use their Og-given judgment in not stretching that window so absurdly beyond 7:00 that even mentioning the number 7 is no longer appropriate. When we make plans, it’s very laid back, and we show up when we show up.
For others, once you give them a number, even if you suffix it with “-ish,” they will be there 15 minutes early, and will grow agitated every second you’re “late.” There are people I know who won’t even bother with the pretense of saying “-ish” at all, and will set the arrival time as the etched-in-marble arrival time. I will accommodate these people. Obviously if I’m hanging out with them, I like them enough that I don’t want to piss them off, but I gotta say I feel better about the whole thing when I know my arrival window is wider than five minutes. I’m strict about time when time is crucial (a show, interview, etc), but for casual lounging, not so much, unless I’m going to meet someone who is strict about time, in which case I will apply so as not to be an ass.
Back on topic: You know what else doesn’t work? Bringing cash (only) to the bar to get you home by curfew. If you want to leave, you will, but if not you’ll just stick around anyway and nice someone up for a freebie.
*I only mention he’s German because I believe the stereotype of Germans is that they’re punctual, disciplined and efficient. My German friend is the least punctual friend I have.