Does Time REALLY Move Faster As We Age?

Do you feel like time is racing by, and your life is moving at warp speed? You’re planting your spring flowers one minute, and the next, you’re decorating your Christmas tree. It seems as though even though time is flying, the days blur together, and my to-do list keeps laughing at me. Sometimes, I have to stop and consciously absorb a moment in time.

Do you feel that your life is speeding up as you age? Do you have those? “Where did my day, week, or month go?

Guess what? You’re not imagining it. Time really does seem to move faster as we age. There’s even a scientific explanation for it—time compression. That’s the official name for this maddening feeling, and it’s backed by research.

If there’s one thing about aging that really pisses me off, it’s this: I don’t feel as productive as I used to. Tasks that once took an hour now stretch into half a day. Cleaning out a closet used to be a two-hour job; now, it’s a two-day ordeal. My to-do list mocks me daily, daring me to keep up. And with the holidays around the corner, the happy obligations feel like a mountain I can’t quite climb.

It’s not just the holiday season, though. For me, it’s every single day.

Time Compression: Why Time Feels Like It’s Flying

When you’re younger, life is full of firsts: first job, first love, first big trip. These moments stand out in your memory, creating what psychologists call “memory markers.” The more markers you have, the longer and fuller time feels when you look back on it.

But as you get older, routines take over. Days blur together. Fewer firsts mean fewer markers, and fewer markers mean time feels like it’s racing by. That’s why a summer when you were 10 seemed endless, but summer at 50 feels like a long weekend.

And let’s not forget the impact of energy and focus. Tasks that once felt effortless now take longer—not because we’re incapable but because our priorities and rhythms have shifted. Add the extra responsibilities that come with life, and it’s no wonder we feel like time is out of our control.

Reclaiming Your Time

Even when life feels like it’s on fast-forward, there are ways to slow it down and make time work for you. Here’s what I’ve been working on:

1. Accept Reality.

First, I’ve had to accept that things take longer now—and that’s okay. Fighting this only adds stress. Life isn’t the same as it was 10 or 20 years ago, and that’s not a bad thing.

2. Break It Down.

Big tasks feel overwhelming, so I’ve started breaking them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Instead of trying to clean an entire closet in one go, I’ll tackle just one shelf or category. Shoes today, coats tomorrow. It’s not glamorous, but it works.

3. Simplify Where You Can.

I’ve decided to host just one gathering this holiday season instead of two. By focusing on one meaningful event, I can devote my energy to making it special without overworking myself.

4. Set Boundaries.

Learning to say no has been a game-changer. Whether I decline a request for my time or set limits on how much volunteer work I tackle each day, boundaries protect my energy and keep me focused on what matters.

5. Delegate More.

I used to think I had to do everything myself, but I’ve learned that asking for help isn’t a weakness—it’s a smart strategy. Let others pitch in, whether it’s family helping with holiday prep or delegating tasks at work. And yes, I’m not above buying pre-made casseroles and doctoring them before serving!

6. Create Memory Markers.

Since memory markers help slow down our perception of time, I’ve made it a priority to seek out new experiences. My upcoming trip to New Mexico to photograph the crane migration at Bosque del Apache is one example. It’s a chance to do something I love, recharge my spirit, and create a vivid memory I’ll cherish.

Reflecting on Time Compression

Time compression reminds us of one simple truth: time isn’t slowing down, but we can still decide how we spend it. Instead of letting the days blur together, we can create new experiences, break out of routines, and savor the moments that matter most.

This year, I’m focusing on living intentionally. That means simplifying where I can, saying no to what drains me, and embracing what brings me joy. It means letting go of traditions that no longer fit and creating new ones that reflect who I am today.

Redefine Your Holidays

The holidays often feel like a race, but this year, I’m consciously trying to slow them down and refine them.

Here’s how I’m approaching the season:

  • Start Early.
    I’ve already started prepping for my holiday gathering and even some holiday cooking. Freezing meals ahead of time is my secret weapon for saving energy and sanity. (I’m still behind, but November hasn’t rolled over yet!)
  • Simplify Traditions.
    Not every tradition needs to stay the same forever. This year, I’m focusing on the ones that truly bring joy to me and my loved ones and letting go of the rest. For example, I plan to attend more holiday musical performances instead of hosting multiple events.
  • Say No to Perfection.
    The food doesn’t need to be magazine-ready, and the decorations don’t have to rival Pinterest. What matters is creating a space where people feel connected and loved.
  • Prioritize Joyful Moments.
    For me, that means spending time doing what brings me happiness. My upcoming photography trip is a perfect example—a chance to reconnect with nature and do something I love during this busy time. I’m also spending a couple of days with my New Mexico bestie, a gift all its own.
  • Celebrate Small Wins.
    Did you buy the groceries without losing your mind in the crowded aisles? That’s a win. Did you take five minutes to sip coffee in peace before the day’s chaos began? That’s another win.

What About You?

Can you rethink your holiday commitments to better reflect your current life? You could host a smaller gathering, skip something draining, or plan a trip that nourishes your spirit.

Time may feel like it’s speeding, but we can choose how we respond. This season—and every day after—I’m choosing to slow down, focus on what matters, and create space for the things that bring me peace and fulfillment.

You don’t have to do it all. You have to decide what’s worth your time.

You’ve got this. Send me an email and let me know what you think of the time compression theory.

Let’s celebrate the moments that truly matter—and create memories we’ll want to hold on to.

“Church of the Morning Moon”

Every morning, I step outside to breathe in the fresh air and marvel at creation. Daytime moons have always held a special fascination for me—the sun and moon graced the sky and shared their quiet harmony. They are eternal dancers, tracing their ancient steps around the Earth—one casting light by day, the other borrowing its glow to illuminate the night. Together, they choreograph the rhythms of time, guiding the tides and marking the seasons in the grand celestial waltz. This morning, the waning moon hung low, framed by trees like a cathedral of nature. The Earth felt sacred for a moment, its rhythms guided by the eternal dance of the sun and moon. Peace settled over the day’s beginning, a quiet blessing from the heavens.