How to Spend Less Time on the Internet

When the Internet was new, it seemed more or less endlessly educational. It never occurred to most people that it would be easy to spend too much time on the web. However, it is now so pervasive and filled with so many different types of content that almost anyone can waste as much time as she likes, or, in many cases, more time than she would prefer. If you are one of these people, it can be very challenging to spend less time on the Internet, but there are some tricks you might want to try.

Instructions

1. Don't eat in front of the computer. Since we all need to eat sometimes, this habit ensures at least occasional breaks. Take some face-to-face time with your family or housemates, or, if you live alone, listen to music and enjoy your food.

2. Take stretching breaks. Doing so at least once per hour is recommended to help avoid wrist and eye strain, and if you get up and walk around at this time there may be more of a chance that you won't sit down again afterward.

3. Visit the library. Many people who overuse the library used to be voracious readers of books. If you make sure to keep plenty of books around, you may be more likely to pick them up when you aren't doing anything, and if you choose books that actually interest you, you may feel less like your time is being wasted.

4. Watch TV or movies. TV obviously has its drawbacks, and plenty of people watch way too much. However, if you're the sort of person who spends a lot of time on the Internet and never watches videos, you might want to reconsider this stance. One major advantage of TV and movies compared to the Internet is that they are much easier to enjoy with other people. You can watch shows together, comment on them, and discuss them afterwards, which at least makes for a nice change occasionally.

5. Set working hours if you can work from home using the Internet, and only do work during these times. If you have a laptop and can go out and work somewhere else, even better, as this clearly sets work time apart from non-work time.

6. Use a timer. Choose a certain amount of Internet to allow yourself each day, and start the timer when you sit down at the computer. When it goes off, do something else.

7. Make real world friends who share your interests. Many people enjoy Internet groups because it's easy to find people with similar interests online. It's not impossible in the real world, though. Look for local clubs or classes related to activities you enjoy.

8. Keep a to-do list, on paper, of chores and fun activities. When you have some free time, pick an item from the list. If it's on paper, you won't sit down at the computer first and be tempted to stay there.

9. Try an Internet detox, especially if all else fails. Don't use any Internet at all for a week or more (except for work if you absolutely must). During this time, you may rediscover other activities that you enjoy, and find it easier to spend less time on the Internet afterwards.

Tips & Warnings

• If you know anyone else who wants to spend less time on the Internet, check in regularly and talk about how it's going. Being accountable to someone else can really help you stay motivated.