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
Discuss Further
Open this concept in an AI assistant for deeper discussion, critique, or exploration.