Why We Struggle to Keep Pace and How to Find a Better Rhythm

As I reflect on my daily routine, I’m often left wondering: how can I manage my time better? The feeling of hours slipping away, of days blending together in a blur, is a common experience for many of us. But what’s behind this sense of timelessness, and how can we break free from the stress and anxiety that comes with it?

For behavioral scientists, the answer lies in our relationship with time itself. Those who instinctively organize their lives around external cues, known as “clock-timers,” tend to thrive in a world of schedules and deadlines. In contrast, “event-timers” like myself rely on internal clocks, often finding themselves caught off guard by the passing of time.

According to Ian Taylor, a researcher at Loughborough University who has studied the science of motivation, our relationship with time is the “essential ingredient” in how we experience our days. When we feel that our time is well spent, we’re more likely to feel a sense of flow and accomplishment. But when our time doesn’t align with our values or well-being, it can have a debilitating effect on our lives.

Taylor warns against the notion that time is completely inflexible and that we must strive to manage it rigidly. Instead, he suggests aiming for fluidity in our schedules, allowing for a lack of friction or strain. This approach, he argues, is more likely to lead to happiness and productivity.

To better understand my own relationship with time, I decided to track my activities on a spreadsheet for three days. The results were eye-opening: I spent twice as much time on email as I had imagined, and I realized that I often ease into the day with tasks that could be done on low-power mode. I also discovered a pronounced mid-afternoon slump, where my focus wanes and I struggle to record what I’m doing.

Taylor’s advice to tackle thinking-intensive tasks first and to schedule time for nourishment and self-care resonated with me. He also emphasizes the importance of identity in shaping our behavior, suggesting that thinking of ourselves as certain types of people – such as writers or runners – can be a powerful motivator.

Ultimately, the key to effective time management is to live in line with our values and character. By reflecting on our priorities and making conscious choices about how we spend our time, we can create a more balanced and fulfilling life.