The Time Trap: How to Deconstruct and Defeat Your Temporal Overestimation Bias

For never-resting Time leads Summer on.

A daunting task looms ahead, and we convince ourselves it's too time-consuming or challenging to tackle, so we put it off till tomorrow, when somehow, if by magic, our minds will finally feel well enough to get shit done. This mindset, which I call the "temporal overestimation bias," leads us to frequently overestimate the time and effort required to complete tasks. Consequently, we end up procrastinating or avoiding responsibilities. The irony is that these tasks almost always turn out to be quicker and less painful than we initially thought. So, how can we rewire our brains to overcome this cognitive bias? Here are two strategies that will help you build a healthier relationship with time and productivity.

Discovering the Real Duration of Your Tasks

 The first step in breaking free from the temporal overestimation bias is to quantify the actual time it takes to complete a task. This week, choose a responsibility you've been avoiding, and ask yourself, "How long do I think this will take?" Jot down your estimate, then proceed to complete the task at a comfortable pace, all the while timing yourself. Compare your prediction with the actual duration and observe whether you tend to overestimate or underestimate the time required. Gaining this insight will help you develop a more accurate perception of time in the future.

Time Spent Worrying & Time Spent Doing

 Now, let's turn our attention to the tasks that make you uncomfortable. Consider how many times you've thought about completing the task and how much time you've spent dreading it. For instance, if you've contemplated cleaning out the garage 14 times this month, spending a few minutes each time, you may have already spent nearly an hour worrying about a task that could be finished in just 30 minutes.

 Recognizing the time you've spent agonizing over a task highlights the necessity of action. Each moment spent worrying only contributes to the total time drain, making the task feel even more burdensome. By combining these two exercises, you'll realize that tasks often won't take as long as you anticipate, and worrying about them is counterproductive.

 The temporal overestimation bias is a profoundly ingrained cognitive tendency that prevents us from reaching our full potential. By actively timing our tasks and confronting our discomfort, we can develop a healthier relationship with time and enhance productivity. So, the next time you find yourself avoiding a responsibility, remember to break free from the illusion of time and embrace the satisfaction of getting things done.