New rule for self, as of today: no news, Reddit, YouTube, chess, social media, scrolling, or entertainment of any kind during weekdays (with exceptions for being outside walking–I don’t want to quit Pokemon GO).
It’s not that these activities are inherently bad, or even that they take up time, attention, energy, and willpower (though they certainly do). The main issue–at least for me–is that the endless entertainment and distraction made available via the internet too easily satisfies my mind’s constant need for novelty and stimulation.
So I’m never bored, or even close to bored. And that’s a problem.
When I’m bored or close to bored, the creative hallucinations set in. That’s what I want! The endless stream of ideas, both good and bad, that results from my mind trying to entertain itself.
As well as the desire to get up and move, even if it’s just to do chores or take a walk.
In the past I’ve tried rationing screen time, or setting up timers that block certain sites after x amount of minutes. But that never works. What I need is a simple rule, a commitment, that changes my mindset.
And I think understanding my why will help.
Wish me luck and perseverance!
I’m excited to announce that my novelette The Portishead Tunnel will be published by