How to End a Troubling TV Addiction
By Genevieve Cunningham
If you live in the modern world, chances are good that you enjoy a good night of TV. It's rare to find someone who doesn't love TV -- or some kind of television type entertainment. For the most part, watching a few shows on occasion isn't a big deal. But sometimes it seems like the more we watch, the more we want to watch. And before too long, watching TV is a full-blown addiction. We can't go a full day without watching something on the screen. Over time, this can lead to serious declines in mental and physical well-being. But there's hope! If you're guilty of watching too much TV, take a look at these tips to help you end the addiction today.
Set a Time Limit
If you set a very specific time limit on television time, it's a little easier to stick with. Often, we set limits that are vague. "I'll only watch a few episodes," or "I'll watch until my eyes get tired." But these kinds of limits don't set any boundaries. We need to set limits that are more concrete: "I'll watch exactly two episodes and then turn it off." While this may feel difficult at first, it won't take long to adjust to the new way of thinking and the new rules on screen time.
Find a Different Hobby
If you're really having a hard time skipping the TV, you can try to replace it with something else. Try a hobby that is fun and interesting. When you get the urge to leave it on for another episode, pick up your hobby instead -- no matter whether that's a puzzle, a book, a walk at the park, or something different. Hobbies are great ways to pass the time and learn something new -- and of course keep the TV off! It might be all you need to kick the old habit and build a new one.
Ask for Help
Sometimes we need more help than we like to admit. If turning off the TV is a bigger struggle than you anticipated, don't be afraid to ask for help. Ask the other people living in your house to help you stay away. Ask them to help you stay engaged and busy away from the television. Little reminders can help keep us on track when we can't seem to make the commitment all by ourselves. Ask for help when it's needed, and you may finally find success.
Watching TV is not all bad. We all need to stay updated on world events. We need entertainment. We need an escape! But too much TV can really do a number on overall health. Use these tips to cut the addiction, and keep your health and TV habits under control from here on out.
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