Why Time Flies

“Time flies. We tell ourselves we can always do this or that thing later. Open a bar when we get older. Put off that trip we’ve been thinking about for a while. Life is short. Do things now!” ––Maximilian Kiener

To succeed in life we need to alter our perceptions around time. But there’s a fine line between distorted perception and being full of shit. Perhaps it’s time to change our perception of the perception of time. Maximilian Keiner created an interactive experience; Why Time Flies, exploring the standing debate around whether time flies or whether it’s relative.

As we grow older we perceive life passing much more quickly than it did as a child––recall sitting in elementary school watching the clock slowly tick by until the bell rang. We know time isn’t moving faster, what’s changed is our perception of time. It’s something we have control over by taking purposeful actions to participate in the world around us and become more mindful and aware.

Here are some Uncommon ways to change your perception of time:

• Try not to plan your day in a series of events, but rather a series of opportunities.
• Stop and pay attention. Sounds simple, but we overlook details every day.
• Savor positive experiences. A positive experience can boost serotonin levels and make your day more pleasurable.
• Get out of the haze. When the day starts to feel like it’s moving slowly, stop what you’re doing and go for a 10-minute walk.