Manipulate Your Sense of Time With 3 Steps | Laura Vanderkam on Impact Theory

Mastering Time Management with Laura Vanderkam: Expanding Time Perception

In a thought-provoking episode of Impact Theory, Laura Vanderkam, a renowned author and speaker on time management, delves into practical methods for manipulating our perception of time to enhance productivity and fulfillment. Below are the key insights and actionable advice she shared during her conversation.

Core Concepts and Philosophies

Vanderkam introduces the concept of "time perception"—our ability to feel like we have more or less time based on how we manage and remember our activities. She suggests that by changing our routines and the way we remember events, we can expand our sense of time and achieve more satisfying and memorable days.

Practical Strategies and Advice

• Intentional Planning: Allocate time weekly to plan out personal and professional tasks to avoid last-minute chaos and ensure a balanced approach to weekly activities.
• Memory Manipulation: Engage in activities that are memorable to alter the perception that time is fleeting. By enriching our experiences, time can feel more expansive.
• Controlled Connectivity: Limit distractions by setting specific times to check emails and notifications, allowing for focused work periods interspersed with planned breaks.

Supporting Evidence

Vanderkam discusses various studies and personal anecdotes to illustrate the effectiveness of these strategies, including her own experiences and those of successful professionals who implement these tactics to maximize their productivity and personal satisfaction.

Personal Application

She shares how personal routines and intentional breaks have significantly improved her ability to manage a busy schedule while still finding time for personal growth and family.

Recommendations for Tools and Techniques

• Time Blocking Software: Use tools like Google Calendar or Microsoft Outlook to structure days and weeks with clear objectives and dedicated time slots for different types of work and rest.
• Apps for Habit and Focus: Employ apps like Forest to stay focused on tasks by minimizing phone use, or Habitica to gamify daily routines and enhance productivity through positive reinforcement.

Through these methods, Vanderkam advocates for a transformative approach to time management that allows individuals to not only accomplish more but also to enjoy richer, more memorable experiences in their daily lives.