The Twenty Minute Day

Selecting Programs that Fit My Schedule

I recently had an epiphany about my viewing habits. When I sit down to watch a program, I usually select the program based on what appeals to me in the moment, a practice I am sure is common for most people.

My latest binge-watch was a TV series that I wanted to catch up on. After completing it, I was on the search for new content. That was when it dawned on me. What I enjoyed about binge-watching the TV series was its shorter episodes. Sure I might watch two or three episodes at a time, but there was a natural break that allowed me to squeeze in another project or two a night.

Conversely, when I put on a movie, I feel compelled to watch it start to finish. These days, that’s usually a 2+ hours commitment.

I realized that my streaming choices were impacting my time management in a way I hadn’t considered before.

Now when I go to watch something, I think how much time do I want to spend sitting here, and then search selectively. I navigate to the television programming section, explore limited series, or opt for movies based on how much time I am willing to commit.

It may seem like a small thing, but I have truly come to appreciate this change in how I approach streaming. I get my viewing fix but also take control back of my time.

Now, if only TikTok had a timer in place.