Why do I feel like time moves differently now?

Time feels different now, and you’re not alone in noticing this. Our perception of time can change based on various factors, and recent events have made these shifts more noticeable for many people.

As we get older, time often seems to speed up. This happens because we have more experiences to compare new events to, making them feel less novel. When we’re young, everything is new and exciting, so time feels slower as our brains work harder to process all the new information[1].

Stress and big changes in our lives can also warp our sense of time. When we’re under pressure or dealing with unfamiliar situations, our brains go into overdrive. This can make time feel like it’s stretching out or flying by, depending on the circumstances[7].

The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns really messed with people’s perception of time. Being stuck at home, away from our normal routines, made days blur together for many. Some felt like time had slowed to a crawl, while others felt it was racing by[4].

Our emotions play a big role in how we experience time too. When we’re happy and engaged in what we’re doing, time can fly by. But when we’re bored or anxious, minutes can feel like hours[9].

The way we use technology nowadays might also be affecting our sense of time. Constant notifications and the ability to instantly access information can make us feel like everything is happening at once, speeding up our perception of time passing[13].

Interestingly, our brains don’t actually have a specific “time organ.” Instead, we piece together our sense of time from various cues like our heartbeat, breathing, and the rhythms of our environment[15].

To help regain a sense of normal time, try to establish routines, engage in new experiences, and practice mindfulness. These can help anchor your perception of time and make it feel more stable.

Remember, there’s no “right” way to experience time. Everyone’s perception is unique and can change based on their circumstances. If you’re concerned about significant changes in your time perception, it might be worth chatting with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues.