The perception of time is a complex phenomenon that varies considerably throughout life. Many of us notice that once we reach a certain age, time seems to fly by.
But why does this change in our time perception happen midway through life? In this article, we will explore some of the psychological theories that explain this fascinating phenomenon.
The role of routine and habit
One of the main reasons why time seems to speed up in middle age is related to routine and at daily habits.
When you are young, life is full of new experiences and stimulating, which require greater attention and awareness. As we age, we tend to settle into more predictable routines.
This monotony causes our brain to process less new information, giving the impression that time passes faster.
The theory of proportion
Another interesting explanation is the proportion theoryproposed by Paul Janet in the 19th century. According to this theory, the perception of time is relative to our age. For example, for a five-year-old child, a year represents 20% of his or her life, while for a fifty-year-old person, a year is only 2%. This means that as we age, each year becomes a smaller and smaller fraction of our total lifetime, making us perceive time as faster.
The importance of neuroplasticity
The neuroplasticityor the brain’s ability to adapt and change, declines with age. When we are young, our brains are extremely plastic and able to assimilate new experiences quickly.
Over time, the brain becomes less responsive to changes, which can lead to a shorter perception of how long it takes to acquire new skills or experiences.
This change can contribute to the feeling that time is passing more quickly.
The influence of emotions
The emotions they play a crucial role in our perception of time. Emotionally charged events tend to be remembered more vividly and seem to last longer.
During middle age, many people experience periods of emotional stability that can reduce the perception of time passing.
Additionally, daily responsibilities and associated stress can make experiences less emotionally engaging, further contributing to feelings of time flying by.
Final reflections
Our perception of time is influenced by a complex interaction of psychological, biological and social factors.
Understanding these dynamics can help us find ways to slow down perceived time, such as introducing new experiences, practicing mindfulness, and maintaining an emotionally rich life.
We hope this article has offered you some insights into this fascinating phenomenon. If it was useful to you, we invite you to share it on your social networks and discuss it with friends!
