A Dilemma of Gaming

[Seanlol]

Hi everyone my name is Sean I’m 24,

Im writing because I’ve realized that for the first time in my life I have to make a major decision over my video game addiction- and I think that the fact that I’m here means that I already know what that decision is. 

I’ve played games my whole life, for most of it my life I didn’t consider it an addiction, instead it was a hobby, lately I’ve realized that it’s unhealthy for my brain with how it affects dopamine, motivation etc. I’ve also realized that it was pretty easy to give up games because I was in a lull with them anyways (all of my friends stopped playing the same games, I’ve disliked the past few games I’ve bought) - and I just spent my gaming time on YouTube and Twitch

However, the other day I decided to give myself a break and try a new highly rated single player game, and it might have been the best game I’ve ever played. I actually felt amazing, so much so that I allowed myself to play games a little more the following day, and then all day today… and I realize that this is a common pattern of mine. When I’m habitually playing a game I’ll just play whenever is convenient and it usually doesn’t feel all that great- but when I’m really inspired to play a game (like after watching League of Legends world finals) then I’ll think about the game all night and day, create draft plans and strategy, do research and set long-term gaming goals. Last time I made a full SWOT analysis strategic plan for improving my solo queue skill. It’s crazy.

The thing is, I realize that I can’t have this in my life. Part of me wants to experience all the amazing games there are but I realize that the more I get into the rabbit hole of gaming, the more I lose focus of my life.

Im an MBA student and a few weeks ago I was daydreaming about joining a big 3 consulting firm and living the dream (which I know may not be what it seems) and this morning all I thought about was getting to diamond in league of legends as a midlaner and battling the monguls in ghost of Tsushima. 

and now I feel like if I don’t give up the gaming dreams I have by giving up gaming- maybe it will cost me the dreams I have for myself with my career, lifestyle and education. 

Anyone that has been through a similar situation, what are your thoughts? Have you found that giving up games, even if you love them at times has been worth it, or have you found that keeping them in moderation has been successful for you?

Thanks