Netflix. We hear that word and immediately think of those Saturday and Sunday marathons of our favorite shows and movies. We all love Netflix, but does Netflix really love us back? The late night cram sessions for a paper and an exam would beg to differ. It’s not like we don’t know what we’re doing when we start a new TV series on a Wednesday night, but the addiction is far greater than any nicotine or caffeine.
There are a few ways that can turn Netflix from a distraction to an escape.
1. NEVER START A TV SHOW ON THE WEEKEND, OR EVER
It sounds silly but “Orange is the New Black” will take away your whole weekend that you could have been getting work important done.
2. WATCH A MOVIE WHEN YOU HAVE A LOT OF HOMEWORK
Movies have a beginning, middle, and more importantly an end. If you need a little break between papers, a movie will take about 2 hours away from your study time. TV shows could take days away, months even.
3. NEVER WATCH NETFLIX ON YOUR BED IF YOU HAVE A LOT OF WORK
The bed is the best place to watch Netflix, I know, but think about it. If you are lying on your bed enjoying a movie there are 2 options: go to bed or keep watching. None of these options include homework or work.
4. USE NETFLIX AS A REWARD
Netflix is a reward. Never give yourself the reward before you do the hard work. Netflix is something to look forward to after 80 pages of reading.
5. BE A GOOD FRIEND AND DON’T SUCK YOUR FRIENDS IN
Everyone has a lot of work to do. Don’t tell your friends about a great show they need to watch immediately. STOP! Odds are they will get addicted to the show and stay up all night trying to catch up to you so you don’t spoil plot points in casual conversation.
I know it’s hard to follow these rules. I have a hard time myself. If these guidelines are too much to bear, there is one crucial rule that you have to follow use Netflix properly.
6. NEVER GO ON NETFLIX AFTER 11PM
Go to bed and go to class. You are paying $300 per class and only $8 a month for Netflix. I know this is Emerson, but do the math.