Tips for Reducing Television Watching

Several years ago, one of the best moves that I made was to ditch the television set.  Actually, I kept the television, it remains unplugged in the corner and serves more as a shelf for collecting a pile of papers.  I enjoy not watching television and having the time to do other things, like reading books, but I know the transition is not easy for most people.  If you are trying to give up television, or at least cut down on the time spent in front of the screen, here are some things you might try.

--Eliminate all of your sets but one — if you’ve kept televisions in multiple rooms, reducing it to one will make limiting watching.

–Stop using the television as background sound — if you like having sound, you might try substituting music, especially classical which can be more soothing.

–Choose one or two favorite shows each week which will make them seem like a treat.  Gradually work your way to less time each week.

–Check into alternatives for cable or other services — there are now multiple alternatives for limited streaming programs like Hulu TV.

--Cultivate alternative activities — I enjoy reading and long walks, my friend Karen enjoys gardening and pottery.  The best thing about spending less time watching television is having time for other things.

shared at Works for Me Wednesday and Frugal Friday