3 Tips for Balancing Your Video Game Addiction With a Full-Time Job

While once upon a time video games were mostly seen as an activity for children, video games have become more and more sophisticated and immersive. As such, many adults enjoy playing video games as a full-fledged hobby. 

Beyond being simply entertaining, video games now can be played live online providing an opportunity for social interaction. For many, the thrill and enjoyment of video games is a full-fledged addiction. Yet when you compare a video game addiction with something much more serious like substance abuse, gaming is one of the more innocent addictions you can have.  On the other hand, tackling substance abuse demands a different level of intervention. Effective treatment for substance abuse involves personalized strategies, counseling, and a supportive environment. It’s a challenging journey, but seeking help is crucial to recovery.

Yet with the demands of a full-time job, it’s important that you maintain a healthy work-life balance while also enjoying your passion for video games. And while finding a balance isn’t always easy when you’re so enthusiastic about getting back to your console, it’s important if you hope to keep your job.

The good news is that embracing your love of video games and also maintaining your responsibilities as a full-time employee is entirely possible with the right strategies. 

If you’re looking for some of the best tips for balancing your video game addiction with a full-time job, then look no further.

Free Up Your Personal Time

Part of being an adult means taking care of responsibilities like housework and paying bills. When we get home from work, as much as we might like to turn the console on right away, we often have to prioritize our to-dos first.  

Unfortunately, this can significantly cut back on our gaming time which can be nothing short of a bummer. However your responsibilities are part of being an adult, and these things must get done!

The trick then becomes looking for clever ways to speed up things like housework and grocery shopping so you can spend more of your free time doing what you love.  Consider hiring a house cleaner, or ordering groceries online. These shortcuts will free up your schedule and provide more time for gaming while also ensuring your to-do’s get done.

Take Breaks

Since gaming is a sedentary activity, it’s important that you take breaks for physical activity. Spending long periods of time in front of the screen doesn’t just affect your physical health, but it can also impact your mental health. 

Don’t forget to take breaks to do things like go for a walk, or interact face-to-face with friends and family. Counterbalancing the sedentary aspect of gaming is critical if you hope to find a healthy equilibrium between your video game addiction and your overall well-being.

Give Yourself Time Limits

Self-discipline is crucial when it comes to gaming.  Playing into the late hours of the night can affect your sleep schedule, and in turn, negatively impact your work performance. It’s important that you set time limits for yourself so you get enough rest to perform your best. Not only will this help you stay focused on your job, but it will also avoid feelings of guilt about a lack of productivity.

By following these tips you can attain a healthier balance between your video game addiction and your “real life” responsibilities. Remember, enjoying video games and working full time is entirely possible as long as you approach it with a controlled and balanced mentality.  Happy gaming!