Time Consciousness

Ukrainians are notoriously time-conscious. There is a clear distinction between rural and urban areas. The capitol time is something that people in Kiev are more aware of. Even though 5-10 minutes here and there are probably permissible. It also depends on the work ethics accepted by the company for which each individual works. However, most people are perfectly fine with being 5-10-15 minutes late. If this becomes a habit, coworkers openly complain and confront each other, and the situation usually improves. The same time consciousness applies in personal life. However, instead of 5-15 minutes, 10-40 minutes can be used. People are aware of it and openly and frequently negotiate it with one another. Foreigners and businesspeople should be aware of this and try to confirm their plans with anyone from Ukraine to avoid misunderstandings.

The Gregorian calendar is used by the Ukrainian public and government. The Orthodox Church, on the other hand, uses the Julian calendar to determine the dates of religious celebration days. The Julian calendar is derived from the ancient Roman calendar. Because the Julian calendar is two weeks behind the Gregorian calendar, religious holidays fall on different dates. Christmas, for example, is celebrated on December 25 in the West, but January 7 in Ukraine and other places. Traditionally, time was measured by the sun and the seasons it affected. Spring and the start of the growing season were celebrated with the Feast of the 40 Martyrs, the release of animals to pasture on Saint George's Day, ritual sowing during Lent, and Easter. Prior to Lent, Winter was burned or drowned in effigy.