I limit the time I spend daily on computer games in order to maintain balance in my life. Computer games are a fun and enjoyable method of entertainment in moderation. I play computer games to relax momentarily.
To prevent myself from becoming sucked in by the addictive properties of computer games, I create a daily schedule for myself. I separate time for me to play computer games and browse the internet so that I only do it during that time.
During my allotted game times, I have a great time playing games free from guilt. As soon as that time is over, I close the game and quickly move on to the next thing on my schedule for the day.
The key to successfully ending a game is to give myself something to do instead. Keeping a fast paced schedule makes it easier for me to shut down games when I need to.
I use a timer to remind me when my time for computer games is up. Having an auditory clue makes it easier for me to tune in.
My time is valuable, therefore I always strive to spend time doing things of eternal worth. Spending time with my children, serving others, and working hard for my family are the true valuables in my life.
Today, I choose to limit my time on computer games because, at the end of my life, the legacy I leave for my family is what will matter – not how well I played a certain game.
Self-Reflection Questions:
Does my gaming interrupt my real life?
How can I set boundaries for my game playing?
Why is gaming so important to me? What can I do to decrease my attraction to gaming?
I love my adult children as much today as I did when they were adorable little newborns.
I do my best to remain connected to my adult children even though they are living on their own now because my children are still important. I travel as far and as often as I can to see them.
Regardless of the distance between us, I am determined to be present in the lives of my adult children. I mail letters, cards, and goodies to them, making sure always to include a self-addressed stamped envelope to encourage them to write back.
I establish weekly phone dates with my adult children – a special time I have carved out in my schedule just for them.
Current technology makes it easy for me to stay in touch with my children. Not only can I call them over the phone and hear their voices, but with the use of a web camera, I can also see the faces of my children as we speak. I invest in all the technological tools that facilitate a close relationship.
Today, I choose to value my adult children enough to initiate contact with them. As I reach out in love, our relationship strengthens.
Self-Reflection Questions:
What obstacles prevent me from interacting with my adult children? How can I overcome them?
When is a good time to establish a weekly phone date with my kids?
How does a phone call, email, or letter communicate love to my children?
I stay away from gossip because it is detrimental to my relationships. Gossip is a toxic substance that hurts everyone involved. In the garden of beautiful blooming relationships, gossip is like a poison that causes them to wilt.
When someone walks up to me and brings up someone, I quickly praise the person and say something positive about him or her to show the gossiper I have no interest in negativity.
I thwart the divisive effects of gossip through kindness. I have the power to change the subject when the person I am speaking with starts to gossip.
People who gossip generally do so out of a lack of self-worth. By asking the gossiper questions about their own lives, I communicate a sincere interest in them.
My genuine friendship meets other’s need for validation and helps them to realize they can be thought of highly without having to put others down. As I ask questions of the gossiper, I stay in control of the conversation by focusing on them.
In cases where the talker insists on gossiping, I have the courage to speak up about my feelings. I bluntly state that I avoid talking about people behind their backs. Ultimately, I walk away from people who refuse to be kind.
Today, I choose to speak positively about all people the same way I would want them to speak about me. I try my best to steer people away from gossipy conversations and walk away from those who insist on gossiping.
Self-Reflection Questions:
What is a good topic I can change the subject to if I find myself in gossip?
What drives people to gossip?
How does gossip hurt others?
