I always aim get to the gate just before boarding starts.

Ideally, I like to be among the first on, because the instant my boarding pass has been scanned and I am on my way to the plane, the airport and all its stress is behind me and I'm on my way. I don't care how long I sit on the plane, as I like being on a plane, and I'd take that over milling around an airport any day of the week.

I'm also very punctual in general life and arrive bang on time for almost everything, so I guess it's just part of that.