Why does time seem to fly when we are having fun?

Time seems to fly during fun because your brain is busy with the game, story, joke, or puzzle instead of checking time. The clock keeps moving normally, but your attention is elsewhere, so the minutes leave fewer little time markers behind.

Bored moments often feel longer because you notice each pause and keep asking what comes next. A full, happy afternoon may feel quick while it happens, then feel rich later because the memories are bright and easy to revisit.