Perception & patterns · Perception Bias · Entry 212
Tachypsychia – when time slows down or speeds up in extreme situations
Have you ever felt like time slowed down in a moment of danger? Or that it flew by when you were deeply focused? That’s Tachypsychia – a shift in time perception under stress, fear, or intense concentration.
Where it can show up
- Dangerous situations – when facing a threat, your brain processes information faster, making time feel slower.
- Deep work & focus – when fully engaged, time can ‘shrink,’ and hours pass unnoticed.
- Sports & competition – athletes often experience time slowing down when concentrating on a crucial play or movement.
💡 How to use it?
- Train focus – mindfulness helps regulate your perception of time.
- Leverage stress – in critical moments, your brain speeds up, use that for fast decision-making.
- Slow down joyful moments – if you want to make good times last longer, pay attention to small details around you.
