Time is a tricky thing. Remember the year 2010 like it was yesterday? Apple had just unveiled the iPad, Inception was messing with our heads, and Marina Bay Sands was the talk of the town. Fast forward to 2025, and suddenly 15 years have flown by in the blink of an eye. How did time slip through our grasp so quickly?
Dr Kimberly Chew, a clinical psychologist and founder of AO Psychology, shed some light on this perplexing phenomenon. As we age, time seems to speed up, leaving us feeling like we’re caught in a whirlwind. But why does this happen? Let’s dive into the science and psychology behind the relentless march of time.
The Weight of Routine and Repetition
Dr Chew pointed out that our perception of time is heavily influenced by our experiences. When we’re young, every new encounter leaves a lasting impression. From our first day of school to our maiden voyage abroad, these “firsts” mark significant milestones in our memory. Childhood, with its abundance of novel experiences, feels slower and more vivid.
However, as we grow older, the novelty fades. Routine sets in, and our days start to blend together in a monotonous blur. Dr Chew explained that this lack of fresh experiences causes time to slip by unnoticed. Our brains crave new stimuli to anchor memories and slow down the relentless march of time.
The Digital Time Warp
In today’s digital age, time has taken on a new dimension. Social media, with its endless scroll of content, can warp our perception of time. Dr Chew highlighted how mindless browsing can make hours vanish in a haze of virtual distractions. The lack of mindfulness in our digital activities disconnects us from the present moment, leaving us adrift in a sea of fleeting seconds.
Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist, delved into the impact of social media on our sense of time in his book, The Anxious Generation. The virtual world, with its asynchronous interactions, can further alienate us from the flow of time and reality. It’s a stark reminder of the importance of staying grounded in the here and now.
Embracing the Present
Feeling stuck in a time loop, unable to move forward? Dr Chew offered a beacon of hope. By creating new experiences, engaging in mindful activities, and processing past traumas, we can reclaim our sense of time. Novel experiences, whether through travel, hobbies, or quality time with loved ones, can anchor us in the present moment. By untangling our emotional baggage and embracing the here and now, we can slow down time and savor each precious moment.
In a world that’s constantly racing ahead, it’s essential to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the richness of the present. Time may be relentless, but with a mindful approach, we can make each moment count. So, go ahead, create new memories, engage in creative pursuits, and let go of the past. Time won’t just pass us by—it will unfold in all its vibrant glory, waiting to be savored and cherished.
