For the Love and Hate of Television- Eliza Jane Schaeffer

TV is one of those things, along with smoothies and roller coasters, that everyone loves but I cannot make myself enjoy. In fact, until this past summer, I had given up on myself as a freak of nature until I found a show on Netflix called Scandal, which I would highly recommend. I also like Modern Family, but I always forget to record it. 

Other than those two shows, which keep me engaged, I find myself zoning out or checking my phone or fidgeting. Then I start thinking of all the things I need to do, and then it's no longer enjoyable or relaxing. When I'm reading, on the other hand, I can't think about anything stressful because I'm focused on reading. So when my brain needs a break, I usually re-read bad young-adult novels.

This is not to say that I disapprove of "wasting time." I am the queen of Pinterest, which is the ultimate time suck. I guess I would just rather waste time on my phone than watching TV. 

I do worry about the kids who are in elementary school right now and are growing up surrounded by TV. Will it affect their cognitive development at all? I hope not.