The hardening of time perception, when moments that should feel significant become routine and pass unnoticed. It describes the emotional numbness that comes from life becoming too predictable or mechanical.
Compound of Greek 'kairos' (the right or opportune moment) and 'sclerosis' (hardening). Created to describe how our perception of meaningful time can become calcified through repetition and routine.
This captures a key insight from positive psychology - that we adapt to positive experiences so quickly that they lose their emotional impact. It's why psychologists recommend 'savoring' techniques to combat hedonic adaptation and maintain appreciation for life's moments!
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