None of us have time for it. We know we could be studying for an exam, completing an online assignment, reading the news, working out, doing our laundry, finding a job, socializing with other human beings — we could be taking the SERU.
But the fact that we don't have time for it doesn't stop us from clicking that enticing red "next episode" arrow as soon as the credits start to roll.
Netflix is a phenomenal company, and the success they have had is nothing short of amazing. They play to our inherent lack of patience and desire for instant gratification. There's nothing wrong with kicking back, relaxing and watching a good show, especially in the middle of the never-ending stress that is college. All I'm saying is there are ways to do so without watching so many hours in a row, Netflix doesn't believe we're still there. Come on, we're better than that ... right?
1. The Characters Are Characters
Remember these words and say them to yourself when you can't sleep without worrying about if Olivia Pope will manage the next crisis. You will find out in due time. For the time being, remember that her name is Kerry Washington and she's probably at home, or maybe she's acting as another character because, well, she is an actress. If the stakes are too high and you know that you're going to become too invested into the lives of these characters, choose a show that has a new cast for every different episode. My personal go-to's are Cupcake Wars and Chopped. I can tell you I never worry about the LA vegan cupcake shop owner after she gets kicked off.
2. Binge Buddies
If you ask me, this is a very serious relationship. There is a level of trust required from both buddies, as well as an abundance of will power, which is perfect when attempting to not get addicted to Netflix. This can be a best friend, a significant other, an acquaintance, or even a total stranger as long as both parties agree to watch a television series with and ONLY with the other person. Especially in college, everyone has very hectic, but very different daily schedules. Chances are, the two of you will only be able to pick up where you left off for a much healthier amount of time than if you were binging solo.
3. Net-Flex
Put down the popcorn and turn your Netflix addiction into a mini workout. We are already strapped for time almost all of the time at school, so why not combine two things you need* to do? You can even turn it into a game, for example, every time they say a medical term in Grey's Anatomy that you don't understand, do 30 seconds of mountain-climbers. Every time Christina scrubs in, 50 jumping jacks. If you're into The Office, try 20 push-ups after each time Jim messes with Dwight. Friends? 10 squats each time the studio audience laughs. You get the picture. Give it a shot.
*Hell yeah I need to see McDreamy say "it's a beautiful day to save lives." This is not a want, it's a need, okay.
If none of my above suggestions work, and you know you need to make a change, try this crazy way of Netflix-ing that indeed does still exist. My grandma is doing it right. She and I are both huge fans of Criminal Minds (who isn't, am I right?), but as I wastalking to her about it, she mentioned the fact that two more episodes were on the way. No, her wi-fi connection wasn't being slow. She was literally waiting for two more episodes to come in the mail from Netflix. This may sound like a waste of time when there is a whole universe of entertainment at your fingertips, but hear me out. Not only are there more choices, or better sound and visual quality if you choose to have your shows or movies mailed, but this method completely eradicates the possibility of watching an entire season in one weekend! Now you can watch the episodes you have been waiting for, and then you just wait until the next one comes in the mail. This is similar to what people used to do way back when they actually watched shows when they aired, but it might just be the perfect weapon against the binge.
