Time Famine: The Chronic Perception of Time Scarcity
research · Time Smart and associated papers (2020)
The pervasive feeling of time famine — subjective time scarcity — harms well-being and can be alleviated by prioritizing time over money and engaging in time-saving strategies.
Core Concepts
The Problem
People feel constantly busy and time-poor, leading to stress and reduced life satisfaction.
The Claim
Time famine is a subjective perception that can be changed by valuing time over money.
Key Evidence
- •Whillans, A.V., Dunn, E.W., Smeets, P., Bekkers, R., & Norton, M.I. (2017). Buying Time Promotes Happiness. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
- •Mogilner, C., Whillans, A.V., & Norton, M.I. (2018). Time, Money, and Subjective Well-Being. Handbook of Well-Being.
- •Whillans, A.V., Weidman, A.C., & Dunn, E.W. (2016). Valuing Time Over Money Is Associated With Greater Happiness. Social Psychological and Personality Science.
Practical Implication
To increase happiness, individuals should prioritize time over money, use time-saving purchases, and view idle time as valuable rather than wasteful.
Nuance & Limits
Not all free time is equal; idle time must be intentional to yield benefits, and cultural norms often pressure people to value money over time.
Source Material
Citation Density
multiple studies
Who's Talking About This
1 episode reference this idea.
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