Nigh on one week ago I decided to change my life, one week at a time. Through giving up vices and conveniences for one week and reflecting on the resulting change in my life and lifestyle, I hope to adapt to a life of moderation, health and happiness.
My first challenge was to go without television, Netflix, moves, etc. for one week, and in the meantime, I’ve enjoyed having the time to pursue the things in life that make me happy, allow me to grow, and get me one step closer to living the good life.
Today, I would like to share five things to do instead of watching television that will help you to accomplish these same goals in your own life.
1. Have a real conversation with someone
Before my week without television, I hadn’t even realized what a distraction TVs can be, no matter where you are. Everywhere I went I was bombarded by a television blaring the latest news, sports, and gossip. In order to keep my resolve, I would end up facing the other direction and talking with friends and strangers–actually having real, meaningful discussions.
I realized how often I spend time with people without investing myself into the conversation. It’s so easy to be distracted by everything going on around you–cell phones, computers, televisions–but the reward of fostering a true connection with someone is well worth the effort to ignore all the world’s distractions, if only for an hour or two each day.
2. Read a good book
Sure, watching television and reading books fill similar roles, giving you something to relax and enjoy at the end of a long day. But while television can have positive effects, they pale in comparison with the way a good book exercises your imagination and allows you to take an intimate look at the world through the eyes of some of the most brilliant thinkers of all time.
3. Do something outside
There is nothing quite as rejuvenating as time spent appreciating the beauty and majesty of the world we live in. I think it was put best by Lord Byron: “There is pleasure in the pathless woods; There is rapture on the lonely shore; There is society, where none intrudes, by the deep sea and music in its roar: I love not man the less, but Nature more.” -Lord Byron
4. Get some physical activity
It took me a long time to learn that when I feel exhausted, doing nothing only amplifies the feeling of sloth. The best way to improve your mood, your health, and your productivity is to take the time to exercise each day, even if it’s only for fifteen minutes. When you return to all of the burdens that life includes, you will be better prepared to make the most of your talents and appreciate the beauty in each moment of life.
5. PLAY
This past week, I’ve been reading Charlie Hoehn’s wonderful new book Play It Away, about using the act of playing to cure anxiety and stress. Whether it’s a game of kickball, a round or Yahtzee, or a fun craft project, take the time to enjoy yourself and have some fun. The time you spend playing will pay itself back tenfold.
About the Author:
Scott Marquart is a writer and the founder of One Week Without. You can follow his adventures at oneweekwithout.com and on Twitter @scottmarquart.
