Surface Ripples

I Dumped the Games

Since I got my first Apple device (an iPod Touch) in 2011, I’ve always had some kind of game or games on my iPhone and tablet.

These were normally the more cerebral or strategy games, not Mario Kart, Candy Crush Saga, Grand Theft Auto, etc and I enjoyed playing them.  From time to time, I tried out new games (Sudoku and different variations of Solitaire) but I found that I grew tired of them at an increasingly rapid pace.

So, this year, without making any New Year’s Resolution, I ditched my games.  The result was interesting to say the least.  I suddenly found that I had more time on my hands.  My ToDo list began to shrink.  I actually started to plan a lot more and in a lot more detail.  I read.  

I come from “that generation” who didn’t grow up with smart devices as the current Gen. Z, Alphas and now Betas are.  I didn’t have to undergo the “withdrawal symptoms” that teenagers in some countries are feeling now as their governments ban social media accounts for under 16s or under 13s as they deem appropriate.

When my generation wanted diversion, we read books (paper ones), went outside and played with our siblings or friends if we lived in a neighbourhood (of course, it was safer at that time).  We drew things, we played with that wonderful toy Lego, inventing aeroplanes, space ships and anything else that caught our imagination.

We developed the ability to think and create.  There’s now some concern that technology (especially with the advent of AI) is destroying the human creative genius.  Whether that’s the case or not, I don’t know.  However, if Hollywood’s anything to go by, there are fewer “original” films being produced and what we’re seeing now are mostly “reboots” of films produced in the 70s and 80s before CGI became as advanced as it is.

Back to what I was saying: I don’t miss the games. They’re still sitting there on my iPhone and iPad, but if I make it through to the end of this year without touching them, I’m deleting them altogether. I think this’ll probably make me a more thoughtful and productive person (at least I hope so!)

I deliver change in markets ranging from the most developed to “emerging” economies. With a wealth of international experience in international financial services around the world running different operations and lending businesses, I started my own Consultancy to provide solutions for improving performance, productivity and risk management.  I work with individuals, small businesses, charities, quoted companies and academic institutions across the world. An international speaker, trainer, author and fund-raiser, I can be contacted by email. 

Labels: Leisure, Productivity

posted by William Martin @ 10:54