I love video games! I always have. I’ve had a Nintendo since as far back as I can remember. I still have my original Nintendo, Super Nintendo, Nintendo 64, Nintendo Game Cube, Sega, Sega Genesis and Xbox at my parents place. We didn’t have a lot of money growing up, but my parents always made sure we had our game systems and when we got old enough, my brother and I would save all of our summer money and buy the latest and greatest system and games. As an adult I’ve had an Xbox 360 for years and I’ve upgraded the system to the newer one every time it’s come out. Like I said, I’m a sucker for video games.
That being said, I’m not one of those guys who ignores his fiancé and doesn’t do other things, but I like playing for an hour or two before bed and occasionally I taking a full Saturday or Sunday and play video games.
That is, up until recently…
About three months ago, I decided that it was time to sell the Xbox 360. I took two weeks off from playing it and realized that I could accomplish A LOT in that hour or two every evening. Whether it was writing a blog post, researching a product, studying for my PT certification, working out, prepping meals, or whatever else, I realized that I could further my life a lot more with just an added hour or two a day. This was enough to convince me that I needed to sell the Xbox.
Since selling the game system and all my games to a young family for their kids to use, I’ve done so much. I’ve become a personal trainer, I’ve travelled 5,000km to California to cover the CrossFit Games, I’ve gotten engaged, I’ve grown Your Inner Skinny and following and I’ve started up my old design and marketing comapany, untitled design.
Now I’m not saying that this is ALL because of the fact that I sold my Xbox, but what I am saying is thas it has a lot to do with that extra time and effort I’ve put into myself in the last few months instead of video games.
Last year I played Halo Reach for 8 hours to help raise money for the IWK Children’s Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia by Gaming and Giving for Good and I plan on doing it again this year, but besides that, I really don’t miss it that much. That is until the new Xbox system comes out and we’ll see what happens.
Is there something in your life you’ve given up to better yourself personally or that you may need to give up to help you move your career or studies further? It’s been helpful for me, maybe it could be for you too!
There are so many more men who need to read this, lol. I bet your fiance was happy about that decision! The truth is there are several things that can keep us from being productive. Gonna have to think on this and see what changes I can make!
She didn’t care about me playing video games. And to be honest, it really isn’t about playing xbox at all. It’s about not wasting my time.
Wow! I’m impressed! I don’t need to give up social media, but I should spend less time on-line. If I’m up, chances are I am looking at a screen.
Social Media is the biggest part of my company and my brand. I couldn’t and don’t ever want to give it up!
Wow, good for you! That must have taken a lot, but sounds like it’s worth it. You’re right – it’s amazing how much time we devote to some things but not others, and how our lives might change if we could put things into perspective and really prioritize. I’m going to think on this – thanks for bringing it up!
It’s funny what an hour a day can do.
this was so awesome to read! you’ve done so much with your new spare time! i love it!!!! way to go!
Thanks! I’m pretty happy.
you sound like us with still owning all the game systems. video gaming is my husbands hobby and stress release so I don’t ever see him giving it up! He still works out 5 times a week though so I can’t really say much. :) Great job in being productive though!
I’m trying to start two business right now, so that extra hour matters. We’ll see what happens when they both become successful, ha ha.
I had to retire to find the time I need! hahahaaa Actually I would have lots of time if I gave up blogging.
Good for you!
Don’t give up blogging!
Great post! It’s got me thinking. While I don’t play video games, I tend to plop in front of the tv after dinner. I tell myself I deserve to relax after a long day of work, training, cooking etc, which is kind of true, but still there are other things I could be doing with that time, at least a couple days a weeks, that could be beneficial. Thanks, Scott.
That’s exactly how I felt! And yes, you do deserve to relax, but maybe every second day.
Pretty much the best post ever. On so many levels. Glad good things have been coming your way :)
THANKS! Things aren’t 100%, yet, but I’m working on it!