The Power of Giving Time to Others
Have you ever felt like time seems to go by too quickly? Perhaps it feels like there’s never enough time in the day to get everything done.
You’re not alone. Many people experience a sense of time scarcity, which can lead to stress and anxiety.
However, according to recent research, giving time to others can actually make us feel like we have more time. In this article, we’ll explore the science behind this phenomenon, as well as some practical ways to give back and find more time in the day.
Subtopic 1.1 – Spending time on others expands sense of time
The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania conducted an experiment where participants were asked to read a letter from a seriously ill child. Half of the participants were given a version of the letter that included a request for help with a Latin text, while the other half received a version without the request.
The participants who received the version with the request were more likely to agree to help, and they reported feeling like they had more time than the participants who received the version without the request. Why does this happen?
One possible explanation is that when we help others, we feel a greater sense of social connection, which can expand our sense of time. Additionally, when we give our time to others, we’re engaging in a meaningful activity that can give us a sense of purpose.
Both of these factors can contribute to a feeling of time expansion. Subtopic 1.2 – Spending time on others expands sense of future
Another study by researchers at Harvard Business School explored the relationship between giving time and our perception of the future.
Participants were asked to complete either a task for themselves or a task for someone else. Those who completed the task for someone else reported feeling like they had more time in the future than those who completed the task for themselves.
The researchers suggest that when we engage in activities that benefit others, we’re more likely to view our future as open and full of possibilities. In contrast, when we focus solely on our own goals and tasks, we may feel more constrained by time.
Subtopic 2.1 – Helping co-workers
Now that we understand the benefits of giving time to others, let’s explore some practical ways to do so. One place to start is with our co-workers.
We spend a significant amount of time at work, and it’s not uncommon for colleagues to feel stressed and overwhelmed. By helping our co-workers, we not only benefit them but also ourselves.
One way to help is to offer to brainstorm solutions to a problem they’re facing. This can help them to feel supported and may lead to a more effective solution.
Additionally, you can use your professional network to help a stressed-out co-worker by introducing them to someone who may be able to assist them with a project or task. Finally, consider leaving a positive review of their work on LinkedIn, which can boost their confidence and help them stand out to potential employers.
Subtopic 2.2 – Volunteer opportunities
Another way to give back is by volunteering. There are countless organizations that could use your time and skills.
For example, you could offer to review resumes for a women’s organization that helps individuals re-enter the workforce. Or, if you have a friend who’s currently job searching, you could offer to help them with their application materials.
If you’re looking for volunteer opportunities outside of your professional network, there are plenty of resources available. Check out websites like VolunteerMatch or All for Good to find opportunities in your area.
Some of the options may be as simple as having a phone conversation with a senior citizen who’s feeling lonely, or taking an intern out for coffee to offer them career guidance. By giving our time to others, we’re not only benefiting them, but we’re also benefiting ourselves.
We can expand our sense of time, connect with others, and make a meaningful impact. So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, try giving some of your time to someone else.
You may be surprised at how it makes you feel. In conclusion, giving time to others can expand our perception of time, boost our sense of purpose, and increase our social connection.
Studies have shown that engaging in activities that benefit others can make us feel like we have more time and give us a more optimistic view of the future. There are practical ways to give back, such as offering to brainstorm solutions for a stressed-out co-worker or volunteering for various organizations.
By giving our time to others, we not only have a positive impact on their lives but also on our own. So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, try spending time giving back to someone else.
It may just make you feel like you have more time in the day.