Ever notice how the older we get, the faster time seems to go?

Don’t worry; here are some fun strategies to help pump the brakes on this crazy ride!"

Feeling like time is flying by is a common experience, especially as we get older.

But first here are a few reasons why this happens

1️⃣ Routine and Familiarity

When we're young, everything feels new, and our brains are constantly processing new information, which makes time feel slower.

As we get older, life often becomes more routine.

Days blend into each other, and without many new experiences, time feels like it's speeding up.

2️⃣ Proportional Theory

This idea suggests that as we age, each year represents a smaller fraction of our life.

For a 10-year-old, a year is 10% of their life, but for a 50-year-old, it’s only 2%.

So, each year feels shorter in comparison.

3️⃣ Focus and Attention

When we are deeply engaged or having fun, we are less aware of time passing, leading to the feeling that it "flies."

On the other hand, when we're bored or doing something tedious, time can feel like it's dragging.

4️⃣ Memory and Perception

Our perception of time is also influenced by how much we remember.

When we reflect on a period filled with events and memories, it feels longer. But if we can’t remember much, it feels like that time went by quickly.

5️⃣ Changes in Metabolism and Energy Levels

As we age, our metabolism slows down, and so does our overall energy level.

This can make us feel like the days are passing by faster because we have less energy to engage in as many activities, and time can slip away without us noticing.

6️⃣ Technological Distractions

With the rise of smartphones, social media, and endless online content, it’s easy to lose track of time. 

These distractions can make hours feel like minutes, contributing to the sense that time is moving faster than ever.

7️⃣ Stress and Busyness

When we’re stressed or busy, our focus is often on the tasks at hand and getting through the day.

This can create a feeling of time slipping away because we’re not pausing to notice the small moments.

8️⃣ Cognitive Aging

As we get older, our brain processes information differently.

Some studies suggest that the brain's internal clock slows down, affecting our perception of time.

This can make time feel like it’s moving faster because our internal sense of how long things take becomes less accurate.

9️⃣ The "Holiday Paradox"

This is a phenomenon where time seems to fly by during a holiday or enjoyable experience, but when we look back, it feels like it was a long time because so much happened.

The paradox shows how our perception of time can be quite different depending on whether we’re living it or remembering it.

So how do we balance this feeling?

There are a few playful ideas to slow down that pesky time thief. 🕰️

✳️ Be Mindful and Savor the Moment Ever tried eating a piece of chocolate like it's the last one on Earth? 🍫

Take your time! Focus on every bite and let that smooth, velvety goodness melt on your tongue.

Apply this to life—be fully present, and you'll stretch those seconds out like a cat in a sunbeam.

✳️ Ditch the Routine Routine is like a time warp—blink, and it's Monday again. 🌀

Shake things up!

Take a different route to work, try a new hobby, or eat breakfast for dinner.

These little changes can slow down time by making your brain say, "Wait, what’s happening?"

✳️ Capture the Moments; Make Memories Grab your camera or phone and start snapping pics like a tourist in your own life. 📸

When you pause to capture a moment, you anchor yourself in the present.

Plus, you’ll have proof that time didn’t just whoosh past you!

✳️ Do Something Scary Okay, maybe not skydiving scary (unless that’s your thing), but stepping out of your comfort zone can make time feel like it's moving slower. 😱

Whether it’s public speaking or trying that mystery dish at a new restaurant, doing things that get your heart racing makes the clock tick just a bit slower.

✳️ Limit Screen Time We all know how scrolling can feel like entering a time warp. 🕳️

One minute, it’s 8 PM, and the next, it’s midnight.

Set some limits on screen time, and you’ll find those extra hours hiding between the sofa cushions.

✳️ Learn Something New Learning a new skill or language can make time feel less like a speeding train and more like a leisurely walk. 🚶♂️

Your brain loves new challenges, and you'll have something cool to show off at parties—bonus!

So, there you have it! A few fun and easy ways to slow down time and savor each moment.

Remember, time flies, but you're the pilot. ✈️

This feeling is just a part of how our brains perceive the passage of time.

Engaging in new activities, learning, and breaking routines can help slow down this sensation a bit. 🌟

Talk soon!

Your ESL Consultant Roz