I’m really addicted to Facebook games these days. I have class tests to prepare for but the addiction is getting very distracting. Plus, these people keep coming up with new games every now and then. It fascinates me a lot and makes me feel like playing all of them. What should I do to control myself from wasting hours playing those games and concentrate on my studies?
- Fb game addict
I don’t think it’s the Facebook games that are distracting your exams; it’s the exam that’s distracting your Facebook time. All types of additions, be it cigarettes, drugs, TV, or Facebook, have one thing in common – they allow us to escape us from our everyday reality. The difference between people who use Facebook and those who are addicted to Facebook is that the addicted ones are always trying to get away from something – in your case, the exams. You could be facing an exam anxiety without even being aware of it. Try relaxing yourself about the exams. Deactivate your account for sometime. That will take some determination but will get you out of Facebook. But more importantly, please remember distraction, additions and procrastination are symptoms of deeper anxieties and fears. So give your books a big hug and kisses and make friends with them and let go of your fears.
I finished my +2 and am busy with volunteering and stuffs. I want to go abroad for further studies, so I’m preparing for TOEFL and SAT. Nut most of my friends have already started their Bachelor’s here in Kathmandu and I feel sad about myself. What if I don’t get admission to the universities I want to study at? Even if I decide to stay in Nepal, will a year’s loss be a problem?
- Confused
Do you really think it’s possible to lose a year? I mean, you can lose keys, phones, glasses but I think a “year” would be a little too visible to lose (smiles). We’ve been raised in a culture where things are very linear and prescriptive. Our lives come with an instruction book, and missing any of the prescribed phases is deemed as a “loss.” Two things I want you to always remember – i) Time is something that’s impossible to possess, to hold on to or own, and thus also impossible to lose; ii) Life isn’t a “who gets there first” race, it’s about who had the most fun on the ride. So stop worrying about “what ifs” and “losing time.” Keep doing what you’re doing and keep at it, and you’ll get to where you need to be. If one door closes, several will open; so just stop worrying and keep walking.
My friend and I have been best buddies since Class 2 and were in the same class till Grade 10. But since we were interested in different faculties for our Plus 2, we aren’t in the same classroom and the same college anymore. We don’t get to meet each other so often as our houses are also far apart. I’m having a very difficult time making friends with my new classmates. I miss my bestie and feel really lonely these days. How can I make my life easier and more cheerful?
- Lonely girl
You’re such a smart person. I’m so glad you asked about how you can make your life easier and more cheerful. Most people ask how they can still be close to their friends (which they can’t). You do recognize that life moves on and now you and your bestie can no long be there for each other as often. You are also smart because you recognize the cause of your unhappiness – that you’re having a hard time making new friends. Give yourself some time. Different people connect to people in different ways. You are probably someone who, instead of having many “hi-bye” friendships, forms deeper relationship with a few friends. For people like you, it takes a little longer to find friends you can trust and who, like you, believe in forming deep meaningful relationships. Till then, stay cheerful and smart like you always are, and friendships will come along.