The Time Paradox: The New Psychology of Time That Will Change Your Life

Phil Zimbardo is the current granddaddy of social psychology. I heard him speak at a conference and ever since then, wanted to get the book. It is very helpful in understanding my patients, my friends...and myself. The copy I received was in excellent condition.

This is an interesting book that has many personality insights. Don't read it too fast. Let it digest slowly.

This book shows that people view time in different psychological ways. The authors divide people into different time perspectives of past-negative, past-positive, present-hedonistic, present-fatalistic, holistic-present, future, and transcendental-future. There are tests in the book and online at [...]. The test will show you how high you rate in all the different time perspectives. There are positives and negatives for each, a balance among them is better than rating extremely high in one. Past-negatives are the people that continually think and talk about how bad their life has been and make no progress because they are stuck in the past. Past-positives are very happy and appreciate their family and the blessings they have had in their life. Present-hedonists are great fun at parties and enjoy the present but are the people that go overboard and get in trouble with drugs, drinking, and the law. They also tend to have financial problems stemming from a lack of planning, and inability to sacrifice anything in the present for a future reward. Present-fatalist believe what will be, will be and that they are predestined so why bother with any effort to make their life better? Futures are always making new goals and pushing themselves to achieve more in education and their career. They are usually very well off financially and in good health but enjoy life much less because of their inability to slow down and smell the roses. Transcendental-futures see themselves as immortal souls so their perspective is eternal not just this life time, whether it be heaven, hell, or reincarnation these people make decisions based on eternity. Holistic-presents are very mindful of the present and even in thinking about the past and future their emotions are neutral. This is what is taught in Zen Buddhism. This book is at first very interesting in teaching you about the psychology of time perspectives after you learn how high you rank in each category. Then it is a self-help book that shows you how to balance your own perspective by rethinking your opinions of the past, staying mindful of the present, and preparing for the future. "This book is about living life fully, about squeezing life from every year, hour, minute, and second that you are allowed. Time perspective is one of the most powerful influences on human thought, feeling, and action-and the least recognized or appreciated. This book is an investment guide for your future. A balanced time perspective will allow people to learn from the past, enjoy the present, and plan for the future."