Time is Subjective How We Perceive Time Differently
How We Perceive Time Differently
Time can feel so unpredictable—some moments fly by, while others keep draggin on forever. Why does a fun evening seem to end too quickly, while a boring meeting feels endless?
In MetaMoreFire, we explore this idea of subjective time, showing how our emotions and focus shape how we experience it.
We aim to show you: You can learn to take control of how time feels, making it valuable and meaningful.
How MetaMoreFire Captures Time
In our film metamorefire, we play with time’s subjectivity. The robot is working repetetive work and following uncreative instructions. He is getting stressed by the raising workload, unable to stay focused and present with his tasks.
The only way out of this misery is stopping time itself to reflect on the situation. The firedance, on the other side, is creating a deep transformation through its creative energy, its dynamics and its connection with the art and oneself.
How We Perceive Time: 5 Key Insights
How We Perceive Time: 5 Key Insights
1. Short Moments Leave a Big Impression
Brief, meaningful moments stay with us longer. The brain prioritizes emotionally charged or high-reward experiences, strengthening these memories while filtering out less significant ones. This is why a surprise or exciting event feels vivid and stretches time when we look back.
2. Focus Changes Time
When you’re deeply engaged in an activity, time seems to fly by. Hours feel like minutes because your brain stops actively tracking time. Conversely, boredom or low engagement stretches time, making every second feel longer.
3. Cultural Pressure to Stay Busy
In many cultures, busyness is seen as a mark of success. This often leads people to pack their schedules, creating stress and a sense of time scarcity. However, being “busy” doesn’t always mean being productive or fulfilled—it reflects societal values more than personal well-being.
4. No Time? It’s About Priorities
When we say we have “no time,” it often reflects our choices rather than an actual lack of time. Misplaced priorities, a lack of motivation, or pressure in the wrong areas can create this feeling. Learning to set clear goals and focus on what truly matters can change this perception.
Source:
5. Motivation Makes Time Fly
When we’re motivated by clear goals or a passion for what we’re doing, we often enter a state of “flow.” In this state, we lose track of time because we’re completely absorbed in the activity. Research shows that this immersive experience distorts time perception, making it feel faster and more enjoyable.
Sources: Frontiers in Psychology Coursera Psychological Science
How Time Works in Our Minds
Time isn’t just on the clock—it’s shaped by how we think and feel.
- It’s All About Comparison: Time feels slower when we’re constantly checking the clock or comparing it to other moments. That’s why an hour in a dentist’s chair feels different from an hour laughing with friends.
- Time is Relative: Even science shows that time isn’t fixed. Einstein’s relativity theory proves that time can speed up or slow down based on how fast or far you’re moving. In life, our perception of time is just as flexible.
- No Absolute Time: There’s no universal way to experience time—it’s personal and changes depending on our focus, emotions, and perspective.
Take Control of Your Time
Time might feel slippery, but you can shape how it feels by intentional action. Here’s how:
- Try Something New: Repetitive actions slows time down, so shake up your routine with something exciting or different.
- Stay Present: Mindfulness and focusing on the moment can help you savor time instead of rushing through it.
- Do What You Love: When you’re in your “flow,” time flies in a good way because you’re completely engaged and happy.
- Reflect Often: Take a moment to look back on your day and appreciate how you’ve spent your time—You could journal or count your blessings. It will help you to make your time feel richer.
Time is what we make of it!
It speeds up, slows down, or changes based on how we live and what we focus on.
How do you feel time moving in your life? Join us in exploring the wonders of time and gateways to transformation at MetaMoreFire.