The effects of liking for activities on perceived spare time

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine individuals’ subjective perception of spare time available for activities that are more or less attractive. Design/methodology/approach Three experiments with adult samples manipulate liking of activity and temporal distance and assess the resulting predicted time available. Findings The authors demonstrate that individuals’ subjective perception of spare time is influenced by how much they like or dislike the activities they plan for. Individuals perceive they have more spare time for activities they like than ones they dislike. The strength of individuals’ liking for activities has more impact on perceived spare time available for liked activities than for disliked ones. These effects are attenuated by individuals’ propensity to plan. Originality/value Understanding the effect of spare time perception contributes to the literature on resource slack and provides insights into individuals’ planning for time.