So there was something that I said that I recognized that I did but I never noticed how much I *MISSED* it, when it was gone, than during Lent.
What I gave up for Lent, you see, was buying video games. Now it’s not like I spent *THAT* much money on the habit. Sure, there’s the occasional AAA game that comes out and there’s the occasional sale on Steam but it’s not like I ever exceeded my discretionary funds for the month because of the silly things. One thing I noticed, however, is how many little things I may buy for 10 bucks here, 20 bucks there (it was used!), and just hold in my hands once I get it home and then just stare at it happily as I put it on the shelf (or download it and let it sit prettily in my library).
I *DESERVE* this game, you see. I deserve to play it. I deserve to have the *TIME* to play it. I deserve to have enough free time that there is minimal opportunity cost for me to decide to play this game. And, sure, maybe I don’t have those last three things under my belt in any given week/month/year. You know what, though? I do have the $20 to pick up a used copy of Syndicate!
Which still just sits there.
So what lesson have I learned? Well, I don’t know. Probably that I have time management issues and that I need to figure out some way to reward myself that actually achieves something, anything!, close to actually rewarding myself.
Which brings me to this: how in the heck do you, yes you, reward yourself?
My money sink is board games, but since they give me an excuse to hang out with friends, I think it is worth it. I cut way back on acquiring video games when I realized how much my library had grown and the impossibility of playing everything. I have games from the Paradox Bundle purchased during the big Steam Summer Sale that have never even been installed. They are games I am interested in, but I have never given them a shot.
Actually, that gives me a good opportunity to pose a question. The bundle contained a bunch of the Total War games, including the newer ones. What would be the best one to start with?
JB,
I’d really appreciate it if you’d send North my best wishes. I read a ‘comment’ of his in the “Progress” blog. Tell him, he continues in me and Martha’s prayers. I had eye surgery and can see again and I’ll be writing stuff shortly (..and essay on demons coming up), also I’m dumping some of my old stuff here:
http://www.theimaginativeconservative.org/a-pair-of-moles-robert-penn-warren-and-william-styron/#.UWLMMcqXR0Q
Best Wishes,
Bob Cheeks
Straightaway, Bob.
For me it’s hunting stuff. There is ALWAYS a new gadget to purchase or an old piece of gear to replace.
Precious Moments figurines.
I don’t even understand what this post is about, any more.
Next Lent, you need to say something like “I’m going to stop doing something until Easter.”
You might amaze yourself.
Suggestion: go to the IHOP on Fat Tuesday and get a plate of pancakes. Be by yourself, if you can swing it. Make eye contact with all of the elderly Catholic folk around you. Nod to them as if you were saying “I, too, am here because of Lent.” It makes the pancakes taste better, if you can believe that.
No religion.
No, I get the giving things up thing. I usually give up not going to church (no religion).
The rewarding yourself thing. Who has time for that?
Next time? Give up rewarding yourself. You’ll be amazed.
Mine would be very similar. I buy games on Steam, there’s always some oddball little game that might just be a gem. . . if I ever get around to playing it.