Turn Off the TV and Get More Done

Organize your time and efforts with expert tips from Jacquie Ross, CEO Castaway the Clutter.

Does TV viewing consume many of your evening hours? If so, try switching off for a week!

According to the A.C. Nielsen Co., the average American watches more than 4 hours of TV each day (or 28 hours/week, or 2 months of nonstop TV-watching per year). In a 65-year life, that person will have spent 9 years glued to the tube.

Most Americans agree that TV can be a big time waster.  For me, watching TV is a relaxing pastime which I refuse to feel guilty about. However, I do like to be in control of my time, so I watch most of my favorite shows on DVD and VHS, which I video-tape to watch later (no, I don't use TIVO yet. I'm still in the video era!).  If you spend a lot of time channel surfing and searching for something "decent" to watch, then you may be guilty of watching a little too much TV. 

Try reducing your TV time to take care of some of the things that you're convinced you will never get to. What could you do if you had an extra hour a day? Would you spend more time with your family, organize your closet or drawer, sort through the pile of papers on your desk or kitchen table, or possibly put a few photographs in an album? Why not call a friend or family member you haven't spoken to in a while, get on the treadmill or even take a walk after dinner, instead of taking a walk to the couch?

Still not convinced? Here are just 3 of the many benefits you may experience if you choose to watch less TV. 

More Productive: You'll be able to take control of your day and do some of the things you've been planning to do for a while.

Lose Weight.  Did I get your attention?  You will spend less time sitting down and more time moving!

Save money.  You will be watching fewer commercials, including those addictive infomercials, so are likely to buy and spend less. 

The last point will only work if you avoid shopping-related activities during your TV free time!

Even if you do not want to commit to switching off for an entire week, try a few hours and you will still see the benefits over time. Visit www.tvturnoff.org for more information.

I invite you to sign up for my organizing tips at www.castawaytheclutter.com.  If you live or work in the Baltimore metropolitan area and need the help of a professional organizer, contact me at CastAway the Clutter!   Serving pack-rats and the overwhelmed! 410-615-0320. Jacquie@castawaytheclutter.com