Introduction:

Temporal landmarks are significant dates or time points that stand out from the ordinary, much like physical landmarks stand out in a landscape. These could be personal, like birthdays or anniversaries, or universally recognized, such as New Year's Day or major holidays. They play a critical role in shaping our perception of time and our behaviors.

Why Temporal Landmarks Matter:

1. New Beginnings: They can signify a fresh start. For instance, people are more likely to set goals or initiate new behaviors at the beginning of the week, month, or year.
2. Time Perception: They can act as reference points, helping us segment and structure our experiences.
3. Emotional Significance: They can carry emotional weight, marking meaningful moments in our personal histories.

Types of Temporal Landmarks:

1. Social Landmarks: Universally recognized dates such as holidays or major events.
2. Personal Landmarks: Individual-specific dates like birthdays, anniversaries, or dates marking significant personal events.

Impacts on Behavior and Decision-Making:

1. Motivation Boost: Studies have shown people are more likely to pursue their goals after temporal landmarks that signal the start of a new time period.
2. Perspective Change: They can provide moments of reflection, allowing individuals to step back and assess their lives or situations.
3. Temporal Discounting: Future events seem closer when considered in relation to landmark events, affecting how we make decisions about the future.

Practical Applications:

1. Goal Setting: Utilizing temporal landmarks, such as the start of a new week or a significant date, can bolster the motivation to begin a new habit or goal.