Subscribe now

Mind

The life hack that can help you reclaim your time

Taking on too many commitments can leave us exhausted and full of regret. David Robson shares an easy trick to make more space in your schedule

By David Robson

2 August 2023

New Scientist Default Image

Getty Images/Westend61

AS A conscientious tracker of my health data, I have recently noticed a striking improvement in some key metrics. I sleep more soundly and my heart rate variability – which reflects physiological stress levels – has never been better. My mood is also a lot brighter.

I am conscious that correlation isn’t causation, but these changes have happily coincided with a new life hack I discovered a few weeks ago, which can help us all to manage our time more effectively.

It hinges on a psychological bias known as the “yes-damn” effect, which describes how we often agree to take on too…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox! We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 28th October 2023.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account