Do You Have Trouble Logging Off?

Do you find yourself on the computer often during the day? Do chores get put aside because you'd rather be online? Are you having trouble logging off to spend time with family? Let's face it. Online activities can be fun. But sometimes, they can become addicting and can be a huge distraction in your life.

I enjoy using the computer. My activities on the computer include:

1. Blogging and researching
2. Checking email and responding if necessary
3. Facebook and Twitter
4. Participating in forums
5. Online rewards programs such as Swagbucks
6. Banking and Finances
7. Reading blogs/commenting
8. Couponing
9. Editing photos
10. Looking up topics of interest

...and the list goes on. There is so much information available online that I do find it fun. However, I can admit that it is a huge distraction in my life and I want to take control of it this year, and I think that a few of you may feel that way, too.

During the new year, my goal is to "log off" more often. I am putting myself on a strict "personal" program that I have used before, but now I am using it daily. It's easy to do. I am using the "Timer Method." All you need is a timer of any kind. I prefer the old fashioned timer like you see below.

On days where we spend the majority of time at home, I am only allowing myself 30 minutes on the computer and 30 minutes off, and repeat this as often as I need to if I feel the urge to get on the computer. The only way this will work is to follow this strictly. As soon as your timer buzzes, stop what you are doing and log off. Walk away from the computer. Then, start tackling that to-do list, or spend quality time with your family.

For example, I set my timer for 30 minutes this morning for computer use. I was able to check and respond to emails and start this post. I was in the middle of this post when the timer went off. When the timer buzzed, I immediately got up, left the post to continue later, and went to take care of housework. I could have stayed on to finish, but knew that it could have taken another 30 minutes.

My biggest project that I needed to get done today was unpacking my suitcase from the holidays. Everything was scattered around my bedroom. When I set my timer for 30 minutes of cleaning time, I was able to tackle that huge task along with giving my daughter her snack, with time leftover. Most days, these tasks seem hard to tackle, but with the timer method, I am amazed at what I can get done when I am "timed."

I enjoy using the timer method and think that it may help anyone out there that is easily distracted by the computer. I would love to hear your methods on how you "log off" during the day. Please share by leaving a comment below.

I now have 15 minutes left on my timer now before its time to hang out with my daughter!