Almost everyone watches original programs or their favorite shows on Netflix.
Unless you currently use Hulu or Disney+, the streaming service where you can find entertaining programs both new and old with conflict-driven stories and a mix of A-list movie stars, currently rising stars, or washed up falling stars looking to make a comeback, is Netflix.
Even though the programs range from mind-blowing to turn-it-off, you will usually find something to keep you interested. However, like many other things, Netflix can become addicting. Here are 13 signs that you might be addicted to the popular streaming service.
1. You know which genres interest you, but struggle with picking a show to watch
There are so many good programs on Netflix that you often find yourself strolling through the list of categories more than actually watching shows.
The previews are sometimes interesting, but once you see one you need to check another. Occasionally, Netflix will put one of their original shows in the most popular category, which is egotistical.
Whatever you watch is up to you, but try not to waste too much time, so you do not miss out on some great programs.
2. You have no problem with binge-watching a show until midnight
Once you find a program that you love or want to see one of your old favorites, you will proceed to binge-watch a whole season or at least five episodes in one sitting.
Often the episodes are between 30 to 60 minutes each. Before you know it, the clock strikes midnight, and you would have completed or nearly finished one season already.
Make sure to take some time in between viewings to get something to eat or drink.
3. You watch multiple documentaries a week to educate yourself
The documentaries that Netflix has are interesting, shocking, and informative. This is because they reveal the truth or the closest thing to it. After watching one of them, you will start craving more. It's not a waste of time because these programs are making you think.
Another great thing about these documentaries are the information that you obtain can be used as sources for homework assignments, projects or essays.
4. You started watching multiple shows in a month and cannot decide which one to finish
Sometimes you begin watching a few episodes of one program, before finding another one that captures your attention. Soon, you have at least four or five different shows that you have started watching the first or second season, and now have to complete one.
The best thing to do is pick two shows and flip a coin to decide, which one to finish watching. Another option is watch the programs based on your top three favorite genres and watch those three shows, one at a time to make things easier.
5. You discover your roommate also likes the same program so you binge-watch it together
Netflix is better when you are watching it with family, friends or your roommate. Especially when you have pizza or other delicious food to eat while watching. You each have different opinions on the stories, settings, and characters which make discussions more interesting.
Watching Netflix together is great for bonding, getting to know another person, and finding something to talk about the next day.
6. You cry or pass out when you find out the new season of your favorite show has arrived
If you managed to binge-watch an entire season or whole series, you will eventually find yourself searching for another program until Netflix releases the next season.
Once it finally does pop up, the excitement is too much to contain. If your friends loved the same program, they will also be thrilled; otherwise they will give you strange looks. The arrival of a new season means the start of a another binge-watching session.
7. You hear the words "previously on" and get filled with a sense of joy and tranquility
After getting through one episode, you will already have so many emotions built up inside and are excited to find out what happens next. It's not only because you are getting the opportunity to re-watch your favorite show or continuing the season of a brand new one.
The obsession slowly overwhelms you as the preview comes to an end and the theme song plays. When the title pops up you might be struggling to contain your enthusiasm.
8. You try to find the characters relatable even though the situations are more exaggerated
Netflix has gotten addicting to a point where you will begin feeling that you can relate to the stories, characters, and issues in your favorite shows.
This is due to the connection that you get from watching multiple episodes within a short time. After watching the problems the characters go through and how they get out of it, you start to realize that your life is not so bad. This will only happen with sitcoms, dramas, and rom-coms.
9. You consider the loading circle one of your biggest enemies or nightmares
For Netflix viewers there is nothing more painful than having to watch in horror as the small red circle appears on the screen and begins spinning over and over. T
he loading screen is definitely a pain. Sometimes it will take less than a minute but if the screen freezes, and has to restart then the viewer will likely have a meltdown. Even though that circle is a nightmare, do not let it ruin your viewing experience.
10. You get furious when you cannot find a movie or show that will not put you to sleep
After searching around Netflix, it is likely that you would have already spent a few days watching your favorite shows or classic movies. However, you can only watch so many action, comedies or dramas with the same tropes and endless supply of one-liners.
Do not give up. If you keep looking through the categories you will eventually find a movie or series that is interesting.
11. You are unsure what do you every time you finish the last season of a series
When you come to the end of the last season of your favorite Netflix show, your mind will begin to race. There are so many decisions that you can make within that moment.
You can make lunch or dinner, get in an hour of exercise, hang out with friends or start a new series. The possibilities are endless. Just try not to overthink it, and remember to take a break.
12. You find the words "Are you still watching?" a little offensive
If this message happens to pop up on the screen, you will then realize that Netflix is teasing you. It wants to know if you are going to spend more of your day watching programs instead of doing other things.
At this point you can just continue watching your shows or stop and complete any important tasks. Some would consider those words to be an ultimatum that Netflix is giving you.
13. You leave to finish some errands and cannot wait to return and finish your favorite show
When you are out of the house, you will be wondering about how long it will take to finish running errands because you want to get back to finish watching the show you just began watching on Netflix.
Even when you are busy doing other things, Netflix is still on your mind. You cannot really block it from your conscious. No matter where you are, whether it's in a class lecture, at the gym or shopping, you would rather be sitting down and watching Netflix either alone in peace or with your best friends.