One of the main things I have seen people do when it comes to overcoming video game addiction, is that people begin to dwell on their past time spent playing games. They feel guilty for all of that time spent, all those hours used up which could have been used for something else and getting hung up on walking away from all those hours building up achievements.
I see all of these statements regularly:
📍 I could have spent those 1000+ hours on learning a trade or skill.
📍 I could have learned a new language in those hours spent playing video games.
📍 I could have mastered a musical instrument in that time spent playing video games.
📍 I could have gotten better grades spending those hours focusing on my studies.
📍 My partner would still be here if I spent those hours with them.
📍 Its hard to move on after achieving so many trophies, rewards and medals for excellent gaming as it will all be for nothing. Its like losing everything.
And so on....
I understand that people feel this way. It is good to use it as motivation to change, see what you can accomplish if you change NOW and putting your time (now) to more productive uses.
However, many people also get hung up on the fact those hours spent playing video games produced excellent scores, unlocked content, achievements, medals and rewards. The thought of letting all that go feels like letting go of your life because its the only achievement you have.
I understand you feel that way, its an endless, vicious circle of regret and fear making it hard to let go. Paralysing you, keeping you from taking the steps needed to begin a new chapter in your life.
Yes, reflect on your life. But do not regret or feel guilty for it, no matter how hard or bad it is. You must focus on the fact that you no longer wish to lead this lifestyle and you want to make a change for the better.
You have realised there is a better life worth finding. There are friendships and relationships worth mending.
You need to forgive yourself, cherish the moments that lend you to this evaluation and embrace your past. Then, let it go.
Only by doing this will you find peace with your years of gaming and be able to start moving forward.
Until you do this, nothing will change. You will forever be paralysed, going back and forth. Yes, changing will be an upward battle with your own mind. Yes, it will feel scary and uncomfortable as you transition from your comfort zone to the unknown so you can learn and grow.
Don't let it hold you back. Your NOT a failure, your a human being who makes mistakes like everyone else. So learn from them, improve because of them and make THOSE CHANGES to have a better life.
So let go, smile and appreciate what gaming has taught you. Then start making those strides towards change TODAY! 💪
Let nothing, stand in your way! 🙏
All the best! :)
Vikki
