Ever feel like the weeks blur together as you get older? It’s not your imagination—it’s your brain.
When life becomes a series of routines—same commute, same tasks, same habits—your brain compresses time. Familiar experiences take less mental processing, making days feel shorter and weeks fly by.
But here’s the good news: time is elastic. You can make it feel expansive by injecting novelty into your day.
How novelty stretches time
Imagine taking a new route to work. It’s just a small change, but suddenly, you’re noticing new sights, fresh details, and maybe even a new coffee shop you hadn’t seen before. That mental engagement makes the day feel longer and more memorable.
The same principle applies to any part of your routine. Trying something new activates your brain, making time feel rich and full again.
How to reclaim your time
This week, try adding one new experience to your schedule.
- Visit a park you’ve never been to.
- Try a different workout class.
- Even ordering something new at your usual café can make a difference.
It doesn’t have to be big—small shifts create a ripple effect, turning ordinary moments into something that stands out.
Time is elastic. How will you stretch it today?
If you’re looking for more ways to create a life that feels meaningful and balanced, LifeHack All-Access can help. With strategies designed to optimize your time and habits, you’ll unlock the tools to live with intention.
Explore LifeHack All-Access here.
Make today count!
Leon
Founder & CEO @ LifeHack
