Today, I have not watched television
This is not a ban, it is not a plan, it is not something I am proud to have managed. I have not watched television because I do not own one.
It was an unessential expense at the time I moved in and would not be a cheap choice now. I can afford a television and it was always my intent to purchase one, but given that I've survived many months without it, I am increasingly doubting that I do require one after all.
"How...can you not have a TV? What do you do in the evening?"
That's not to say I am any less sedentary or more productive as a result. Or even that I don't watch series or programmes that are shown on television. People seem to forget the modern convenience and technology means you don't actually need a proper TV to be able to catch-up on your wanted watching. I have a laptop, I have Netflix access, 4OD, iTV player, BBC iPlayer. Having said that, I don't tend to watch that much; I spend screen time on the internet instead, or I listen to the radio. There's so much information out there, so many people's opinions, thoughts, reviews, suggestions that you can't possibly tire of it completely. There's not much room to be bored, these days.
A television isn't a necessity for me, but it would be handy for guests and extending social invitations. As much as I love the idea that friends come over to chat, drink, eat and play games, that's not always the case. Sharing a film or show together can be as much a bonding experience as any other way of passing time, It would be great to be able to say "come on over, let's watch this at mine". To curl up on the sofa with duvets and popcorn and see a film together. To arrange to have a weekly wine and Strictly session. To order-in pizza and consume an entire box-set back-to-back.
So, as the new year and January sales roll around again, I am wondering - should I bite the bullet and buy a TV? Or save £300+ and spend that on a holiday instead?
Flitterbox: The Buggles ~ Video Killed The Radio Star
Flitterbook: The State We're In ~ Adele Parks
If it weren't for Strictly, which I adore, I wouldn't bother with a television either. The vast majority - at least 98% - of what we watch is either on iplayer or 4od, or is a DVD or a download. We are seriously considering keeping the TV but not watching or recording any live TV so we can get rid of the TV license... but then I think of my beloved Strictly!
ReplyDeleteI also do not have a TV and haven't for the past 8 years (too expensive at uni, then used to not having on after). The only thing I miss it for it live sports e.g. wimbledon, tour de france etc.
ReplyDeleteI also actively prefer watching boxed sets to episodes on TV. I'm way too impatient to wait a week between episodes.