Almost every American wears a watch, and there is a clock in **(1)** every room in an American home. “Be on time.” “Don’t **(2)** waste time.” “Time is money.” “Time waits for no one.” All of **(3)** these familiar sayings reflect the American obsession with promptness and efficiency. **(4)** Students and employees displease their teachers and bosses **(5)** when they arrive late. This desire to get the most **(6)** out of every minute often affects behaviour, making Americans impatient when they have to wait. The **(7)** urge to make every moment count sometimes makes it **(8)** difficult for Americans to relax and do nothing.