Tidy Tuesday - Computer distractions

Computers are both a blessing and a curse.  A blessing because we can keep in touch with loved ones near and far, we have unlimited information at our fingertips, we can share our ideas, we can take classes, we can store and share photographs, we can even watch movies and the TV episodes we missed.  How amazing when you think about it!

A curse?  Soooo many ways but I am going to focus on the fact that computers can be a BIG distraction.  There can be dishes to do, laundry that needs folding, dinner that needs to be fixed and yet it's so easy to sit glued to the computer, checking the news on Facebook, trying to beat your high score on your favorite game or looking for good ideas on Pinterest.  The time seems to fly when you're in the middle of a good chat with your friend in LA or you just want to finish one more game of ...

Recently I tried something that has been working for me pretty well.  Before I log onto the computer in the morning, I have to complete the basic things on my To Do list first.  That way it becomes a reward for getting the things I didn't want to do done.  It's been surprisingly easy to implement although occasionally I've caught myself getting ready to hit that Power button but then I remember my promise and I close my computer and tackle the the more mundane tasks of the day.  Self control!

This idea of hooking something you LIKE to do with something you HAVE to do works with anything.  It's motivating to have something to look forward to when faced with never-ending tedious or boring jobs.  Now I'm going to go check my Facebook  :)