Psychological insights into the perception of time as a source for deepening leadership.
In the book "Why Life Goes Faster as You Get Older" Professor Douwe Draaisma offers an intriguing insight into our subjective perception of time. Many people – particularly those of middle age and beyond – feel that time is speeding up. Draaisma convincingly demonstrates that this acceleration is not a matter of clock time, but lies in our memory and in the way we assign meaning to our experiences.
For executives and senior leaders, this book offers a surprisingly valuable perspective: it helps us understand how people – particularly in the second half of their careers – experience meaning, rhythm and direction. And how we can influence that.
The nature of time: not a clock, but memory.
According to Draaisma, the perception of time is essentially the perception of memory. Periods in which we have many new or intense experiences seem to last longer in retrospect because they are stored more vividly in our memory. Young people experience many ‘firsts’, which create vivid memories. For senior professionals, on the other hand, weeks or even years can blur into one another when life unfolds in fixed routines.
The result? Time ‘seems’ to pass more quickly – and with that, there is sometimes a growing sense that it is ‘too late’ to change, reflect or start something new.
The lesson for executives:
- Time for a coaching session.
Many leaders approach an executive coach with questions about direction, purpose or a loss of energy. Draaisma’s insights offer a practical starting point: how does the client relate to time? Are they still having enough new experiences? Is there room for wonder, or are they stuck in a repeat? - Stillness is also perception.
Coaches can help slow down their clients’ ‘accelerated time’ – not by doing more, but by deepening meaning. Reflection, re-evaluating successes and being mindful of rituals can make time tangible once again. This is not philosophy, but practical psychology. - Creating new memories = strengthening leadership.
Leaders who continue to challenge themselves – through learning, experimentation, travel or coaching – enrich their memory with new experiences. This not only broadens their perspective on time, but also enhances their resilience and leadership capabilities. Coaches can consciously encourage this process.
Beyond efficiency: time as strategic capital.
Draaisma’s work invites us to view time in a different light. In a world where leaders are primarily judged on speed and results, it is valuable to also consider the perception of time. For coaches, this is a powerful tool for deepening conversations, and for leaders, it offers an opportunity to reshape their own development.
Conclusion.
Why Life Speeds Up as You Get Older does not offer quick tips or management models, but rather a profound psychological insight that every executive coach should be aware of. The book makes it clear: if you want to manage your time, you must first understand your memory and perception.
For leaders and coaches who want to look beyond the issues of the day and create lasting impact, Draaisma’s book is an invitation to slow down – and it is precisely in that slowing down that the real acceleration lies.
Recommended for: executive coaches, senior leaders, HR directors and leadership developers who work on topics such as purpose, sustainable employability and personal growth after the mid-career stage.