Like many college students, technology overwhelms my life. Whether it involves checking my phone for texts, turning the TV on every night in bed, or browsing the latest articles on HerCampus.com, I am constantly connected. After moving into my new apartment, I decided to not have a TV in my room for the first time in many years. Here are some of the benefits I’ve noticed.
1. Getting better sleep
Most doctors agree that getting sleep is as an important factor in maintaining overall health. In the past, I would put the TV on before bed, often keeping me up much longer than I should’ve been.
2. More productive, focused work
I have always had a desk in my room and would often have the TV on in the background while doing homework. Now, I have been working in silence and have noticed that I get my work done faster.
3. Time for other activities
Cutting out TV time during my days and nights has given me much more time to get things done. Keeping up with all the chores around my apartment can be overwhelming, but now I’ve been doing a little bit each day, freeing up my weekends and keeping things tidy.
4. Staying more connected with friends
Sometimes when I’ve gotten the urge to watch TV, I’ve reached out to friends I haven’t spoken to in awhile instead, or taken time to invite friends out to dinner or other fun activities.
5. Improved health
The less time you spend sitting in front of a TV the more time you have overall. With the time I’ve saved, I have worked out much more.
If you’re considering minimizing electronic use or if you want to learn more about the importance of sleep you can read Huffington Post co-founder and editor-in-chief Arianna Huffington’s book, The Sleep Revolution, or our review of it.