Instead of TV: Please, Someone, Tell Me What to Do!

You come home from work tired and stressed out. All you want to do is grab something to eat and spend the evening relaxing in from of the tube. True, you know it is not the best way to relax. And after a while, all of the shows look the same. But it's been so long since you've done anything else, you don't know how else to fill your free time.

There are interesting ways to unwind and spend your free time. Start by looking back to what your grandparents and great grandparents did before there was television.

Non-TV Activities

• Take in the local art scene.
• Check out your local theater or community college. They often have affordable plays and musical events.
• Attend a lecture or a book reading.
• Go to the library and borrow a book. You'll have time to discover new—and old—authors.
• Rediscover music. Pull out your old CD's. Or try some different genres.
• Have supper at your table and talk to your family members. You'll be surprised at what you learn.
• Do those things on your “someday” list.
• Go through your photos and recipes. Make copies for your family.
• Catch up with your friends. Meet for coffee or dinner. Send letters, cards or emails.
• Take a walk. It will give you a chance to see your neighbors. The fresh air and sunshine will improve your physical and mental health.
• Join a club. Pick something you like. Pet lovers, readers, card players, crafts, politics. There are all sorts of groups. If you can't find the one you want, start your own. It is a way to do meet people with common interests.

Pretty soon, you'll wonder how you ever had time to watch TV. And why you ever wanted to spend so much time in front of the tube.

photo by Helmut Gevert