So, you’re dying to know, did I make it? I’m sure you remember my pre-holiday dilemma; can I survive two weeks without TN (trusty notebook), faithful computing device and side kick?
Well, the answer was… YES! TN stayed at home and we both survived. TN was in fact replaced by a pre-digital invention of the same name, indeed of the same color too. I used my other trusty notebook, complete with those other handy objects –funky biros (more about my stationery addiction another time – I’m not a teacher for nothing you know,) to note down any interesting articles I came across or thoughts I had, not that I had many – I was on holiday after all.
I also tackled my Amazon addiction and didn’t order a single book while away. I have kept that up since I got back, although it hasn’t been easy, when desperate I have ordered the free sample of a book, the plan being to read that before deciding whether or not I can live without a particular publication or not. As with when I ordered the whole book (although without the cost) I haven’t even got round to reading most of the samples yet.
Instead I tackled my backlog, and came across some very interesting books that I didn’t even know I had, if you’re curious I suggest you start with Wonder, The Red House or Why Students don't like School.
Another way I’ve got round this self-imposed ban has to be to buy the odd freebie, so watch out Odysseus, here I come.
I have actually ordered a couple of books for the kids, (Percy Jackson – Ioved the first one and one on football in case you’re interested) but that doesn’t count either.
Without TN I hardly used the internet at all, that was the point after all. I must confess to the odd FB moment, uploading photos or commenting on friends', and found I had loads more time for reading and other holiday fun.
I know that once I get sucked into the web I get caught up going from site to blog to article, gleaning some interesting ideas but mainly wasting time in a screen provoked daze, so I’ve had a think and come up with some new term’s internet resolutions, I’ll keep you posted on my progress – if I allow myself time on TN to do so!
- Check mail and messages twice a day, 10mins max am & evening.
- Only go online after having fixed my reasons for doing so – AND stick to them.
- Read at least one teaching post/article a day and save useful material in an organized way for once.
- Do not use phone to check out FB, unless it’s to upload photos or reply to messages.
- Always order sample before buying the book.
I'd love to here about your addictions and what you're doing to fight them, or am I the only freak?