When it comes to gaming, it can be easy to dismiss it as just a way to pass the time and have some fun.
It has always been hard to control when that gaming spirit overtakes your soul and then you start that aggressive gameplay, Enjoying the sound of reloading the gun and shooting whoever comes your way.
You’re not the only one with this. According to “Psychology Today“, 80% of gamers confess that they have taken gaming seriously at least once.
So, at some point, you’re gonna get serious about it when you lose a few matches and question yourself for some time.
When You Take Gaming Seriously?
But for many people, gaming is far more than just entertainment – it’s a serious passion. From professional esports players competing for large prize pools to everyday gamers shaping their skills on various platforms, taking gaming seriously has become commonplace.
Additionally, for some individuals, playing video games excessively or obsessively can lead to Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD).
(This is a condition characterized by impaired control over gaming activity and increasing priority given to gaming over other life interests and activities. even though this still hasn’t been completely recognized as a ‘disorder’, it can be a future threat to our passionate gamers)
So today, I will boil down the effects, causes, and benefits that can impact you when you take gaming seriously.
When should you realize that you have taken gaming too seriously?
1. most of your day is spent in front of the screen
You may not realize it at first, but the amount of time that passes by without any other activities can be detrimental to your overall well-being.
If you start to feel like you’re neglecting important responsibilities or relationships in favour of gaming, it may be time to take a step back and assess the situation.
2. You get frustrated easily
Games are designed to challenge your skills, but when you start to feel like you’re not improving or that the odds are stacked against you, it can be easy to become discouraged.
If your frustration starts to interfere with your ability to enjoy the game, it may be a sign that you’re taking it too seriously.
3. You are always comparing yourself to others
Comparison can be a healthy motivation, but when it becomes an obsession, it can cloud your thinking and prevent you from enjoying playing the game.
If you find yourself constantly measuring your progress against other people’s, it could be a sign that you’re taking the game too seriously.
4. You are neglecting your health and hygiene
Taking gaming too seriously can lead to physical and mental fatigue, which can result in a lack of motivation for everyday tasks like maintaining healthy habits or going outside.
If you find yourself skipping meals or avoiding exercise because you’re more focused on gaming, it’s time to reassess your priorities.
Let’s take the ‘Good’ side first…
1. Relax and recharge
Gaming allows you to escape from the stresses of everyday life, allowing you to focus on something fun instead.
It can also help boost your mental health by providing an outlet for creative expression and problem-solving skills.
Plus, it can give you a sense of accomplishment when you reach a new level or complete a difficult mission.
2. You get skilled
When you take gaming seriously, you’re allowing yourself to improve your skills in a particular game.
You can use this time to practice different strategies and develop new techniques that will help you become better at the game.
And if you’re playing competitively, it can also help build self-confidence and discipline.
3. Boosts your brainpower
Playing video games can actually boost your cognitive skills, such as memory, attention span, problem-solving abilities, and more.
This is because gaming requires you to think quickly and make decisions on the fly, which can help keep your brain sharp.
4. improve your reflexes
So, as you play more and more, your brain starts to recognize patterns and movements faster. This helps your reflexes become sharper and quicker, allowing you to react to situations faster than ever before.
Over time, this can make a huge difference in how well you perform in the game, whether that’s being able to dodge an enemy attack or shoot someone with precision accuracy.
Now, what are the downsides of serious gaming?
1. Mental Health issues
For one, an excessive amount of time spent playing video games can lead to feelings of isolation and depression.
It can also lead to neglecting important relationships and responsibilities in favour of gaming. Additionally, the intensity of the experience can cause you to become overly invested in the game, making it difficult to separate yourself from it.
2. Physical Health issues
Prolonged gaming can also lead to physical health issues, such as eye strain, neck pain, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
It can also lead to general fatigue due to lack of regular exercise or proper nutrition, as well as poor posture due to long periods of sitting in front of the computer or console.
3. Addiction
Finally, serious gaming can lead to an addiction that takes over your life and stops you from engaging in more productive activities. It’s important to recognize when gaming is becoming a problem and take steps to manage it before it takes control of your life.
5. It can ruin your relationships
When you take gaming too seriously, it can lead to a disconnect from the people around you. This could be because you’re spending too much time in front of the screen without talking or engaging with others.
It can also lead to arguments about how much time one person is spending playing video games, which can cause resentment and hurt feelings.
How can you bring your gaming activity to moderation?
When it comes to gaming, moderation is key. Here are a few tips to help you bring your gaming activity into moderation:
1. Set time limits – It’s important to set realistic limits on how much time you spend playing video games each day or week. This will help keep you from becoming too immersed in the game and prevent addiction.
2. Take breaks – Taking regular breaks is essential for keeping yourself focused and refreshed. This can help you stay alert while playing and also give you time to relax and engage with your friends or family.
3. Mix it up – Variety is the spice of life! Don’t be afraid to try different types of games, or even switch between consoles or genres from time to time. This can help prevent boredom and burnout.
4. Stay connected – Make sure you stay connected to your friends and family while gaming. This will help you maintain relationships with the people that matter most in your life, even if you’re spending a lot of time playing video games.
The Bottomline
Gaming can be a great way to relax and have fun, but it’s important to remember the potential consequences of taking it too seriously.
Overdoing it can lead to physical and mental health issues, addiction, and even problems in your relationships. That’s why it’s important to stay aware of how much time you’re spending playing video games and keep your gaming activity in moderation.
