How To Slow Down Time - The Holiday Paradox

Updated: September 11, 2025

Ali Abdaal


Summary

The video delves into the fascinating world of time perception, showcasing how emotions like fear and excitement can alter our sense of time. It explores the subjective nature of time perception, emphasizing the impact of activities like being in a state of flow. Research findings on how age influences time perception are shared, revealing intriguing insights across different age groups. The video concludes with practical strategies to slow down time and enrich our experiences, including engaging in new activities, journaling, and practicing mindfulness. Overall, it highlights the complex interplay between emotions, activities, and age in shaping our subjective perception of time.


Introduction to Time Perception

The speaker introduces the topic of time perception, discussing how time can feel distorted in different situations and the impact of emotions on our perception of time.

Study on Novice Skydivers

A study on novice skydivers is discussed, where individuals who were more scared felt time slowed down while those excited felt time sped up. Emotions can influence our perception of time.

Subjective Perception of Time

The subjective perception of time is explored, including how emotions, activities, and states like being in a state of flow can affect our perception of time. The concept of flow and its impact on time perception is highlighted.

Research on Age and Time Perception

Research on age and time perception is presented, showing how people of different ages perceive the passage of time. The subjective perception of time changes as we age, with interesting findings across different age groups.

Ways to Slow Down Time

Three strategies to slow down time and enhance the experience of life are discussed. These strategies include engaging in novel experiences, journaling, and practicing mindfulness to create more memories and be present in the moment.


FAQ

Q: What impact do emotions have on our perception of time?

A: Emotions can influence our perception of time, with individuals feeling time slowed down when scared and sped up when excited.

Q: How does the concept of flow affect time perception?

A: Being in a state of flow can impact our perception of time, potentially altering how we experience the passage of time.

Q: What does research suggest about age and time perception?

A: Research indicates that individuals of different ages perceive the passage of time differently, with subjective perceptions changing as we age.

Q: What are some strategies discussed to slow down time and enhance life experiences?

A: Three strategies mentioned are engaging in novel experiences, journaling, and practicing mindfulness to create more memories and experience presence in the moment.

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