Why does time go by so fast? Causes and tips + free challenge

Have you ever felt like the days are flying by? That you wake up on Monday morning, blink your eyes, and suddenly it’s Friday? You’re not alone! Many people experience the feeling of time passing more quickly as they get older. But why does time seem to pass so quickly? And more importantly, what can you do to slow down that feeling of “time flying”? Let’s find out!

Why does time seem to go faster?

1. Routine and repetition

One of the main reasons time seems to speed up is routine. When we have a fixed routine—think the same work, the same activities, the same surroundings every day—there are fewer new impressions to store in our brain. Our memory loves new experiences, and without them, time seems to pass more quickly. Days flow into each other because they feel the same.

2. Comparison with youth

Remember when you were a kid? Back then, summer vacation felt like it lasted forever! As we get older, we have more experiences to compare ourselves to. A year seems less because we’ve already experienced so many. When you’re 10, a year is 10% of your life, but when you’re 40, it’s only 2.5%. This makes each year seem shorter as you get older.

3. Technology and constant distraction

With smartphones, laptops, social media and constant news around us, we are constantly busy. We hardly have time to stop and be in the moment because we always have 'something' to do. This can make time fly by like a train. Everything seems to go faster because we are always busy and rarely really take a break.

4. The speed of modern life

We live in a fast-paced world. Deadlines, work, social obligations and a to-do list that never seems to shrink keep us in constant ‘doing mode’. This constant sense of rush and busyness makes time slip through our fingers.

What can you do to slow down the feeling of fast time?

Luckily, there are ways to slow down the feeling of time passing quickly. Here are a few handy tips you can apply to experience more peace and space in your days.

1. Try new things

One of the best ways to slow down the feeling of time passing by is to expose yourself to new experiences. These can be small things like taking a new route to work, trying a new recipe, or taking up a hobby you’ve always wanted to do. By trying something new, you give your brain new memories to store, making the days feel longer.

2. Mindfulness and living in the moment

Mindfulness is about being fully present in the here and now, without judging. By being aware of each moment, you take yourself out of autopilot. Simple things like consciously breathing, paying attention to what you eat or taking a walk without your phone can help. This ensures that you experience time more consciously, and that it doesn't just fly by.

3. Reduce your screen time

Technology is a big culprit when it comes to feeling like time is passing quickly. Try reducing your screen time. Turn off notifications, put your phone away more often, and make conscious choices about how you spend your time online. This will give you more space to truly enjoy your time.

4. Plan quality time

Make sure you schedule time for things you really enjoy. Whether it’s an afternoon in nature, reading a good book, or having a cup of coffee with a friend, make time for activities that give you energy. By consciously taking time for these moments, time feels less rushed.

5. Change your routine

As mentioned earlier, a set pattern can make time seem to pass more quickly. Try to break your daily routine every now and then. This can be as simple as making a different breakfast, taking your morning walk at a different time, or planning a spontaneous outing. It helps to stretch out your day more, making it feel less like the hours are ticking away.

Time flies…but not always

While it’s normal for time to feel like it’s passing by quickly, we can influence the feeling of time passing by. By living more mindfully, seeking out new experiences, and reducing your screen time, you can slow down the feeling of time flying. It’s about making conscious choices about how you spend your time, so you can enjoy the moments that really matter.

So, the next time you wonder why time is passing so quickly, remind yourself that you can take control of how you experience that time. Make every day a precious memory!

Call-to-action : Do you also sometimes feel like time is going by way too fast? Try one of these tips and let us know how it works for you! Share your experiences with us in the comments or on social media. We are curious!