With all the Pokémon Go hype, I thought it only appropriate to address the latest rage with some thoughts of my own. Though many are excited about the reemergence of this fandom with the general public, I would argue that a person's time is better spent when devoted to other things.
For example:
1. Writing.
Surprise! The writing major wants to tell you about the importance of word crafting. But seriously, pressing pen to paper is a great way to improve your verbal abilities, recognition of grammar mistakes and increase your vocabulary. So many people cannot write or even speak well and knowing how to do so will put you at an immense advantage in the professional world.
2. Dancing.
Whether you are attending a zumba class, hip hop, ballet or even just free-styling, dancing is such a fun way to work out or just relieve some stress. And if you want to learn a new kind of dance? Look no further than your YouTube app!
3. Listening to Music.
If the magical qualities of music are not already obvious to you, then you have probably not discovered Spotify (or you are not a human being...) Musical genres are seemingly endless and anybody can discover a band or song that suits them. Whether you like the oldies, indie, folk or hard rock, music is a powerful tool that refreshes the soul and brings people together.
4. Working out.
One argument for Pokémon Go is that it gets kids outside or "promotes activity." But catching Pokémons does not boost your heart rate (unless you're running to get them, in which case I applaud your efforts) like a true workout. Pick a sport or a pair of weights and get a move on! Nothing promotes fitness or teamwork more than physical activity.
5. Playing guitar.
Activate your right brain and strum some chords! Learn a song well and you will carry that ability with you in your muscle memory for years to come.
6. Going on an adventure.
Going back to the "getting kids outside" argument, what is the difference whether they are indoors or out? They might as well be texting outside because that is the equivalent of the nature experience they are receiving. We are all in desperate need of a "Bilbo Baggins adventure." A quest that requires bravery and strength and seeing the world as it truly is would be of irreplaceable benefit to anyone.
7. Reading.
If you are a writer, then you already know what I am about to say. Reading improves your ability to write well. But quality books will enlighten you to the heart of another person, boost your imagination and better inform your ability to think. Literature reveals the ups and downs of the past and unleashes many secrets about the nature of mankind.
8. Photography.
Peer through a lens and you will discover another world. Enough said!
9. Drinking coffee.
Taste the nectar of the Dark Muse and you will never want to drink anything else! Whether you like mochas, espresso or frappuccino, coffee has a way of brightening your day and just enhancing life, in general.
10. Hanging out with friends.
Creating memories with the people you love is irreplaceable.
11. Doodling.
Googly eyes, eraser marks and whimsical creatures. Go erect a friendship with artsy things!
12. Sleeping.
A great stress reliever and memory rebuilder, catching some zzz's is much easier than catching Pokémon and is vital to your health.
13. Perusing interesting articles.
Whether it be about news, psychology or art, reading an article can be very enriching to the mind.
14. Watching Netflix.
"Arrow." "Once Upon a Time." "You've Got Mail." "The Amazing Spiderman." "The Matrix." Popcorn. PJs. Family. Friends.
15. Beach-hopping.
Just close your eyes as the breeze combs through your hair and the waves slip over your feet. You'll understand.
16. Eating breakfast.
Literally, the best meal of the day. Fry up some bacon and eggs, sprinkle chocolate chips into your pancake batter, brew some coffee and voilà! A masterpiece is born.
17. Growing spiritually.
Jesus should always be more important than Pokémon.
18. Camping.
Sleeping in a camper, having a bonfire and venturing through nature has always been super appealing to me.
19. Running barefoot through the grass.
My friend once told me not to run through a cornfield because "this isn't 'Field of Dreams.'" Well, I say, "Why can't it be?" Embrace your inner child.
20. Going to a concert.
Close your eyes and feel the goosebumps on your skin as the music seeps into you. Turn your phone flashlight on when the mood arises. Dance. Scream the lyrics. Headbang.
21. Catching fireflies.
If you never had these little critters as a night light, I feel sorry for you.
22. Playing with my little cousins.
Or siblings. Or little kids in general. They teach you so much about life.
23. Day dreaming.
Warning: may evoke feelings of joy, nostalgia and creativity.
24. Hiking.
Great leg workout!
25. Living.
The moral of the story is, fads like Pokémon Go will always be around. But your life will not always be. Use your time well and cherish what you have been given. Love people. Serve. Avoid the distractions of this present age. Fix your eyes on things above, that you may have life.
