Contrary to popular belief, binge-watching is not a bad habit or a waste of time, but a skill. It's not something that any casual viewer can accomplish — a true marathoner must have dedication, a long attention span, a bladder of steel, and no life.
Though there's no universal definition, I'm personally going to define binge-watching as 4+ episodes of a TV show, or 3+ movies viewed in succession. I first discovered my aptitude for mindlessly staring at a TV screen for hours on end during my high school years. "Friends", "Gilmore Girls", "Alias", "Lost," "Buffy the Vampire Slayer", the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy, the "Harry Potter" films (yes, all eight of them)—I could marathon anything, regardless of how many hours/seasons I had to sit through or that pesky thing called school. But in college, I was humbled. With more difficult classes plus extracurriculars/work, I seemed to have no free time and, suddenly, tragically, I fell behind by multiple seasons in all my favorite shows. It was a dark time: my "talent" was gone.
But now, after finally graduating, I'm determined to get it back. During my gap year, yes, I'll be working to save up money for grad school, but I 'll also be binge-watching like it's my job. If you've never understood how people can get hooked on shows/movies, or if (like me), you've simply forgotten how to kick back and binge all day, these tips are for you:
1. Find a quality, high-energy show/movie.
Don't attempt to marathon all of "Planet Earth" or the 1995 BBC "Pride & Prejudice" miniseries. As interesting as these shows are, any program that's heavy on low-toned dialogue and soothing music, but light on suspense, action, plot twists, etc. will quickly lull you to sleep.
2. Clear your schedule.
For busy people and nonbelievers, this can be the hardest part. But remember: there's nothing worse than having to stop your marathon to, say, work, when you've just finished an episode with a huge cliffhanger.
3. Choose your squad wisely.
In theory, it sounds like a blast to invite all your friends over to binge-watch Disney movies or American Horror Story, right? Wrong. Beware of those who talk nonstop, get bored easily, or have never seen the series you're in the middle of watching; they may ask too many questions. If you're not going to binge-watch solo, make sure your partner is as dedicated as you are to your mission.
4. Make a cave.
Lock your door, block out all sunlight, and grab multiple blankets/pillows (though be careful not to get too comfortable). Essential supplies should be within arms' reach (i.e. phone, charger, water, etc.), but real pants are not necessary.
5. Assemble a buffet of snacks and have delivery numbers on hand.
Enough said.
6. DON'T pause!
This is a personal pet peeve of mine. How are you supposed to enjoy your favorite show/movie when you're pausing every 10 minutes so that your friend can pee, call her boyfriend, grab a snack from the kitchen, and run out to her car? You're on a tight schedule — stick to it.
7. Minimize your liquid intake.
If you're not going to pause your program (see tip #6), then your bathroom breaks must be hyper-speedy. It's best not to exacerbate the situation with a giant Gatorade or a 64-oz. slushie from the gas station. Caffeine is the one exception if you tire easily.
8. Let go of your shame.
You're not a loser. You're now a pop culture connoisseur.
Some of you might be wondering: why should I avoid all my responsibilities and human contact just to binge Netflix? Because it's fun and therapeutic. Enjoy the addiction.
