Why We Seem to Experience Time Moving Faster as We Age And What Can We Do About It?
What This Is About
In a recent podcast I listened to, the hosts discussed an intriguing phenomenon many of us experience: the feeling that time speeds up as we grow older. This sensation often leaves us wondering where all the time has gone. The hosts delved into why this happens and inspired from that podcast, I have created and shared some actionable steps we can take to make our time feel more expansive and meaningful.
Why It Matters
Understanding why time seems to accelerate as we age is crucial because it can help us reclaim a sense of control over our lives. The hosts explained that when we're young, everything feels new and exciting—our first snowfall, learning new things, or even simple car rides to new places. This sense of novelty makes time feel stretched. However, as we age and these experiences become routine, and our perception of time changes; days blend into each other, and years fly by. Recognizing this shift can inspire us to seek new experiences and live more intentionally, enhancing our overall well-being.
The hosts emphasize that "adulting" often serves as an excuse to avoid pursuing passions. They argue that adulthood actually offers more opportunities to explore and learn new things, but we often overlook these opportunities, thinking we're too old or too busy. This mindset can lead to a monotonous life, devoid of the wonder and excitement we experienced as children.
Okay but … How To Claim My Time?
To combat the feeling of time slipping away, the hosts offered three practical strategies:
1. Create a Daily Focus Word: Start each day by choosing a word that encapsulates how you want to feel by the day's end. For example, if you want to feel "motivated," structure your day around activities that inspire and energize you. This focus not only guides your actions but also ensures that your days are filled with purposeful experiences. Make sure you are specific about the emotion and avoid anything vague.
2. Prioritize Key Activities: Instead of overwhelming yourself with a long to-do list, focus on 3 to 5 essential tasks each day. This approach helps you concentrate on what's most important and prevents burnout from trying to do too much. By zeroing in on a few key activities, you create a more manageable and satisfying day.
3. Create Pockets of Free Time: Avoid trying to battle time by constraining it to your will, rather make it flexible. One of the biggest takeaways from the podcast was the importance of free time. Time with an open space with no purpose, and no serious goals. As children, we often filled our free time with playful activities, which made our days feel longer and fuller. The hosts suggest carving out periods in your day without any specific goals — just time to relax, have fun, and explore new interests. This could be as simple as picking up a hobby you enjoyed in the past, like painting or gardening, purely for the joy it brings.
A Personal Note: I've noticed that using the same laptop for both work and relaxation can blur the lines between the two. It's like trying to unwind on a treadmill—you're technically in the same place, but your mind associates it with effort and focus rather than relaxation. When we use the same device for work and leisure, it can be challenging to switch off from the work mindset. The familiar sights of emails and notifications can subtly pull us back into a productive mode, even when we're just trying to enjoy a movie.
Instead, consider creating a clear distinction between work and play. Perhaps designate a different device (like a TV) for leisure activities, or set up a separate space for unwinding. This way, when you switch to your relaxation setup, your mind gets the signal that it's time to relax and enjoy. It's a small change, but TRUST ME ON THIS, it can make a BIG difference in helping you fully disconnect from work and truly enjoy your downtime. This separation can help preserve the joy of leisure activities, ensuring that they remain a genuine escape from the daily grind.
Summary
The podcast reminded me that we often become "time poor" as adults, losing touch with the wonder and awe we experienced as children. By creating intentional experiences, focusing on how we want to feel, and allowing ourselves the freedom to explore, we can make our days feel richer and more fulfilling. It's not about having more time, but about using the time we have in ways that bring joy and meaning to our lives.
Incorporating these simple yet powerful strategies can transform how we experience time, helping us feel more in control and connected to the moments that matter most. So, take a moment to reflect on your daily routine, choose your focus word, prioritize your key activities, and don't forget to leave some space for fun and relaxation. It's your life—make it a journey filled with wonder and awe.
CREDIT
My post is inspired by insights from the podcast "The Intentional Advantage," featuring discussions on how we perceive time and practical tips to enrich our daily lives.
For the full conversation, check out The Intentional Advantage: Feel Like You Have More Time episode from June 11, 2024.
This note credits the podcast hosts and provides a link for readers who want to explore the original content.