What We Really Do All Day: Insights from the Centre for Time Use Research

The way we spend our time has changed significantly over the last fifty years, with trends towards working more, sleeping less, and being addicted to our phones. This has implications for our health, wealth, and happiness. This book explores the data collection and expertise of the Centre for Time Use Research to examine fifty-five years of change and its implications for today's world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 27 June 2019
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

The way we spend our time has undergone significant transformations over the past fifty years. This transformation has been driven by various factors, including technological advancements, changing societal norms, and economic developments. In this essay, we will explore the impact of these changes on our daily lives, health, wealth, and happiness.

One of the most significant changes in the way we spend our time is the increase in the amount of time we spend working. According to data from the Centre for Time Use Research, the average American worker spends more than 8 hours a day at work, which is nearly double the amount of time spent working in the 1960s. This increase in work hours has been attributed to a variety of factors, including globalization, technological advancements, and the demand for higher productivity.

While increased work hours may seem like a positive development, it has also had negative consequences for our health, wealth, and happiness. Studies have shown that long hours of work can lead to increased stress, burnout, and health problems such as heart disease and obesity. Additionally, excessive work hours can reduce our time for leisure activities, family time, and personal development, which can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and unhappiness.

Another significant change in the way we spend our time is the increase in the amount of time we spend using technology. According to data from the Pew Research Center, the average American adult spends more than 11 hours a day using electronic devices, which includes smartphones, tablets, and computers. This increase in technology use has been driven by the convenience and accessibility of digital devices, as well as the rise of social media and online entertainment.

While technology has many benefits, it has also had negative consequences for our health, wealth, and happiness. Studies have shown that excessive use of technology can lead to addiction, eye strain, sleep problems, and social isolation. Additionally, the constant exposure to digital devices can reduce our attention span and cognitive abilities, which can have long-term consequences for our productivity and success.

In addition to the changes in the way we spend our time at work and with technology, there have been changes in our social and economic structures that have also impacted our daily lives. For example, the rise of the gig economy has led to a shift in the way we work, with many people working freelance or part-time jobs. This has led to increased flexibility and autonomy for workers, but it has also created challenges such as instability and lack of benefits.

Similarly, the increasing inequality in our society has led to a decrease in social mobility and a rise in economic insecurity. Many people are struggling to make ends meet, which can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. This can also have negative consequences for our health, as stress can lead to physical health problems such as heart disease and stroke.

Despite these challenges, there are also some positive developments that have emerged over the past fifty years. For example, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of work-life balance and the need to prioritize our health and well-being. This has led to the development of policies and practices that promote work-life balance, such as flexible work schedules and paid time off.

Additionally, there has been a growing recognition of the impact of technology on our health and well-being. This has led to the development of policies and practices that promote digital well-being, such as screen time limits and digital detox programs.

In conclusion, the way we spend our time has undergone significant transformations over the past fifty years. These changes have been driven by various factors, including technological advancements, changing societal norms, and economic developments. While there have been some positive developments, such as increased flexibility and autonomy for workers and a growing awareness of the importance of work-life balance, there have also been negative consequences, such as increased stress, burnout, and addiction to technology. It is important for us to recognize the impact of these changes on our daily lives and take steps to promote our health, wealth, and happiness. This may include reducing our work hours, limiting our use of technology, and prioritizing our social and emotional well-being. By doing so, we can create a more balanced and fulfilling life for ourselves and for future generations.

Weight: 222g
Dimension: 111 x 179 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241285565