Time is one of the most valuable commodities we have. Everyone has the same amount of time in a day – 24 hours. However, not everyone utilizes their time in the same way. Some people use their time productively, while others waste their time.

In this article, we will explore how excessive time impacts a person’s lifestyle and what researchers have to say about it.

What is excessive time?

Excessive time is the time that people spend on activities that are not productive or necessary. These activities include watching TV, browsing social media, playing video games, and more.

Excessive time can also refer to the time that people spend on work-related activities. For example, working long hours or taking work home can be considered excessive time.

The impact of excessive time on sleep

One of the most significant impacts of excessive time is on sleep. People who spend excessive time on their phones or watching TV before bed often have trouble falling asleep.

The blue light emitted by electronic screens disrupts the natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to insomnia and other sleep disorders. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, excessive screen time before bed is associated with difficulty falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep, and poor sleep quality.

The impact of excessive time on health

Excessive time can have a negative impact on a person’s health. People who spend excessive time sitting are at a higher risk of developing chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

According to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, excessive sitting is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Another study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that people who spent more than six hours a day sitting were more likely to die prematurely.

The impact of excessive time on relationships

Excessive time can also have a negative impact on a person’s relationships. People who spend excessive time on their phones or computers often neglect their relationships with friends and family members.

According to a study published in the journal Psychology of Popular Media Culture, excessive social media use is associated with lower relationship satisfaction and quality. Another study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that people who spent more time on their phones had lower levels of relationship satisfaction with their romantic partners.

The impact of excessive time on productivity

Excessive time can also have a negative impact on a person’s productivity. People who spend excessive time on non-work-related activities are less productive at work.

According to a study published in the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology, excessive internet use at work is associated with decreased productivity. Another study published in the Journal of Business and Psychology found that employees who spent more time on personal social media during working hours were less productive than those who did not.

The impact of excessive time on mental health

Excessive time can have a negative impact on a person’s mental health. People who spend excessive time on their phones or computers are more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression.

According to a study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, excessive smartphone use is associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression. Another study published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions found that excessive internet use was associated with symptoms of depression, social anxiety, and loneliness.

The impact of excessive time on education

Excessive time can also have a negative impact on a person’s education. Students who spend excessive time on non-educational activities are less likely to perform well academically.

According to a study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology, excessive social media use is associated with lower academic achievement. Another study published in the International Journal of Education and Development Using Information and Communication Technology found that excessive internet use was associated with lower grades.

The impact of excessive time on creativity

Excessive time can also have a negative impact on a person’s creativity. People who spend excessive time on passive activities such as watching TV or browsing social media are less likely to engage in creative activities.

According to a study published in the Creativity Research Journal, excessive TV watching is associated with lower levels of creativity. Another study published in the Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication found that excessive social media use was associated with lower levels of creative self-efficacy.

The impact of excessive time on financial stability

Excessive time can have a negative impact on a person’s financial stability. People who spend excessive time on non-productive activities are less likely to succeed financially.

According to a study published in the Journal of Consumer Research, people who spend excessive time browsing social media are more likely to make impulsive buying decisions, leading to financial instability. Another study published in the International Journal of Business and Management found that employees who spent excessive time at work were less likely to receive promotions and salary increases.

Conclusion

Excessive time can have a significant impact on a person’s lifestyle. It can affect sleep, health, relationships, productivity, mental health, education, creativity, and financial stability.

Therefore, it is essential to be mindful of how we spend our time and to prioritize activities that are productive, necessary, and enjoyable. By doing so, we can lead a fulfilling and satisfying life.