Joel Bennett

Research on the human experience of time spans multiple levels of analysis—from neural time scales in consciousness (Buccellato et al.) and reaction-time studies in psychophysics to personality-based time perspectives (Zimbardo), time management and life satisfaction (Aeon et al.), temporal distortion in flow states and near-death experiences, and the role of time in mystical or transpersonal states. Human temporal perception also unfolds across distinct spans, including the moment, the day, developmental phases, and the full arc of a life (cf. Systema Psyches, Kent et al.). Construal theory further suggests that the ability to contract or expand these spans parallels how individuals construct their sense of self over time. A substantial body of evidence indicates that a balanced time perspective—a coherent, optimistic integration of past, present, and future—correlates with well-being, life satisfaction, wisdom, and self-transcendence. Parallel developments in the study of transcendent experiences have identified neurological correlates of positive psychological states such as awe, savoring, preciousness, gratitude, effortlessness, and fulfillment. This presentation introduces a unifying model of temporal experience—a mandala of time—that integrates these diverse literatures and offers contemplative self-assessment tools for broadening one’s time perspective as a spiritual and developmental practice. Central to this framework is Tempognosis, the process of knowing (gnosis) time (temp) as it manifests in one’s personal life and in the unfolding of the soul’s journey. Contemplative exercises serve as practical methods for cultivating Tempognosis, deepening wisdom about one’s relationship to time and its cosmological origins. The model is elaborated in the presenter’s five book Quest for Presence collection, which provides structured contemplations and self-assessments designed to help individuals shift from “clock time” to “deep time.” Quantitative data from four self-assessment instruments will be reviewed: • Soulful Capacities — Acceptance, Presence, Flow, and Synchronicity, reflecting the frequency of these states (and their opposites) in daily life. • Attractions — enduring orientations such as Centering, Catalyzing, Nurturing, and Coordinating, which describe long-term pulls toward fulfilling one’s destiny. • Day Crafting — qualities such as Routine, Rhythm, Scheduling, Pacing, and Interruption, indicating how temporal patterns shape a single day. • Treasures (Diamonds) — sixteen positive, self-transcendent temporal experiences, including spontaneity, momentousness, fulfillment, clutch, optimism, effortlessness, ordinariness, coherence, adoration, resonance, patience, preciousness, savoring, poignance, release, and awe.

Joel Bennett (Ph.D., CWP, Certified Health & Wellness Coach) is President of Organizational Wellness & Learning Systems (OWLS), a consulting firm specializing in evidence-based wellness technologies to promote psychological and spiritual presence, organizational health and employee well-being. Dr. Bennett first delivered stress management programming in 1985, and OWLS programs have since reached nearly 250,000 workers across the United States and abroad, including training over 1,000 facilitators and coaches. He is a primary developer of “Team Awareness” and “Team Resilience,” evidence-based culture of health programs recognized by the U.S. Dept. of Health and Surgeon General as effective in reducing employee behavioral risks. In 2022, Dr. Bennett was acknowledged with the "Lifetime Achievement Award" from the National Wellness Institute and, internationally, with the "Positive Leadership Award" from the Positive Leadership Institute.

He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Philosophy from the State University of New York (Purchase) and his MA and PhD in Psychology from the University of Texas-Austin. Dr. Bennett has authored/co-authored nine books, including "Raw Coping Power," "Heart-Centered Leadership," and "Your Best Self at Work," and his Google Scholar page provide links to over 30 peer-reviewed scientific studies.

Dr. Bennett's favorite topic is mysticism and the re-awakening of humanity through presence. His five book “Quest for Presence” series is a multi-part guide to living a more meaningful life by re-imagining one's relationship with time. It helps readers shift from a focus on "clock time" (management) to "deep time" (experience), using a mix of science, philosophy, and exercises to cultivate presence and well-being. Key concepts include a "Time Adjustment Protocol" to make the most of each moment, developing "Soulful Capacities" like acceptance and flow, and embracing personal attractions and potential.