What is a minute, really?

What’s in a minute? It can be sixty long seconds, or it can be just a blink of the eye.

Easy ways to slow time down

If you’re trying to slow time down, see how long a minute feels for any of the following:

• If you’re able to, hold a plank for 60 seconds
• Read the Elementary Rules of Usage section from The Elements of Style
• If you’re able to, sprint at full speed for 60 seconds
• After asking a question to a group and hearing no response, wait for 60 seconds before offering the answer
• Try to hold your breath for 60 seconds

Easy ways to speed time up

If you’re trying to speed time up, see how long a few minutes feels for any of the following:

• Go on TikTok (or your time-waster of choice)
• Take a nap
• Get immersed in a good book
• Try to complete a 20-part multiple choice quiz in 10 minutes
• Be stuck in traffic while late for a flight

It’s funny how our perception of time can vary so greatly.