Why Does Time Move Faster As You Get Older?
- Selena Li
- Dec 25, 2025
- 2 min read
Have you ever noticed that the days are starting to become shorter, moving faster and faster than they once did back when you were younger? School years fly by in the blink of an eye compared to in elementary school when it seemed like the semesters would not end. It's almost as if time is slowly speeding up. However, time itself does not change, as it is forever constant. Instead, this phenomenon is caused by psychological factors. Interestingly, these psychological factors play into how our minds perceive time.
Clock with multiple hands
"Frames Per Second"
One explanation for this phenomenon is that our brains receive fewer images as we grow older compared to when we were younger. As we grow older, so do our brains. The rate at which the brain processes visual information slows down, leading to "fewer frames per second." As the complexity and size of the network of neurons increases in the brain, further distances are needed to perceive information. This results in a slower signaling process, which ultimately leads to the feeling that time is moving faster.
Habits
Another reason is that the brain tends to hang onto new experiences more clearly. When we're younger, we're in the ages of exploring new things, trying new foods, and seeing new sights. The brain registers these experiences better because the child's mind is fresh and able to digest exciting discoveries from each day. As time moves on, we encounter fewer and fewer new experiences and start to repeat old habits. As a part of human nature, we cling onto those habits and eventually stop trying new things, such as changing our schedules or even trying new foods. Without these little changes and discoveries, our memories start to blend together, turning days into weeks and weeks into months, ultimately speeding up time.
Technology
Person scrolling on a phone
Technology also plays a huge role. Doomscrolling, constant notifications, and playing games put the brain into autopilot mode. When distracted by or constantly on an electronic device, the brain doesn't create strong memories. Such behavior makes it seem like only a few minutes have passed, when in reality, hours have gone by. Reflect on the last time you scrolled on social media, whether it's TikTok, Instagram, or other apps. How many videos do you actually remember? Most likely, fewer than half of the videos you watched. Just swiping through multiple videos in a short amount of time can affect your attention span. When bouncing from one video to another and quickly switching between different apps, the brain can't fully process what's happening. This results in fewer solid memories formed, causing time to feel like it flew by even if you were being productive.
Time doesn't actually become faster as we grow older; what changes is how we function in life and how our brains adapt to it. It's natural in the process of growing up that routines start to repeat in everyday life, and new experiences are scarce. Memories start to blend, especially now, with innovations and technology. Life may seem fast-paced at times, but it's good to recognize the world around you and take a breath. You'd be surprised how much slower time actually feels when you're appreciating the moment.
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