Do you wanna know how to get the most out of your games? We've got the answer!

In light of my recent "no screens" week (I know, lame name), I'd like to point out a few thoughts I've harbored for some time now. These thoughts revolve around the idea that video games can only be enjoyed to their full potential when life continues and functions as normal outside them.

If I could, I would spend my whole life playing games, watching movies, eating, and sleeping. No matter how blissful that lifestyle would be, however, it's just not an option. Some people give in to these lazy, self-indulgent ways, but even then it's far from bliss. Inescapable consequences such as bad health and low self-esteem result. No, a happy lifestyle is a balanced one.

My current roles include employee, student, family member, and friend. I love to play games, but a play session that lasts 'til 11:30 at night yields several unwanted consequences. It can negatively affect each of those important roles. It's a vicious cycle!

Compare that to a day during which I take care of all of my priorities, get a solid hour of video games in, then go to sleep at a decent hour. In which example am I going to have the most fun playing video games? I think the answer is clear.

Now that you know the key to getting the most out of your video games (and other entertainment, for that matter), I hope you'll go and implement it! Although, it's funny I should post this at the threshold of a new weekend, 'cause weekends tend to be an exception...okay, okay, enjoy your weekend and play lots of games, then you can exercise good judgment!