TIME IS CONTRACTING, AND SO ARE OUR LIVES
Ever since ancient history, time has been a mental perception tied to our memories, experiences, and daily activities. The rapid progression of technology compresses our days as more tasks are added to our to-do lists. With the relentless rhythm of contemporary life fueled by technological advances—such as the internet, telecom, streaming, IoT, and artificial intelligence—our daily lives feel increasingly condensed. From the moment we wake up, we are bombarded with notifications, information, tasks, and rapid communication.
Today, AI not only expedites tasks but also contributes to an ongoing sense of engagement. Consequently, the day seems to vanish quickly, leaving us with the impression that time is fleeting. The constant connectivity and efficiency offered by AI significantly impact our perception of time, underscoring the need for individuals to be mindful and deliberate in managing their daily routines.
The advent of AI technology takes this acceleration to a new level by automating processes and enhancing efficiency, creating a heightened sense that time is slipping away rapidly. As AI seamlessly integrates into our lives, tasks that once demanded time become instantaneous, reshaping our daily experiences. This pushes us to reconsider the conventional idea of what can be achieved within a 24-hour day, considering our evolving relationship with technology that demands we achieve and produce more every day.
And yet, amidst these technological advancements, it’s crucial to recognize that technology is adding more tasks to our plates within the same 24 hours. A decade ago, our to-do lists were notably shorter. In our communication industry, clients expected their agencies to deliver a creative campaign within 30 days. Today, they expect their campaign to be live within 72 hours.
The relentless speed at which information is processed and tasks are accomplished, courtesy of AI, contributes to the sensation that time is contracting. Suddenly, we realize that our parents are aging, and our children are swiftly becoming adults. The acceleration of time is profound, and memories, even the positive ones, seem to fade between sunrise and sunset.
As we move through various daily activities, we come to realize that our days are actually shrinking, and our notion of a familiar 24-hour day is starting to blur. The speed of technological progress emphasizes the need for us to be mindful of how we manage our own time. In this era of fast-paced experiences, understanding how AI affects our perception of time is essential for maintaining a balanced and intentional daily life.
Technological progress is undeniable, but it raises a worrying question: are we losing living time? The cost of living is on the rise, yet the quality of life appears to be diminishing. As we advance technologically, it’s imperative to reflect on the impact on our time perception and consider how we can balance progress with a meaningful and fulfilling life.