Chapter 1: The Concept of AFK in Real Life

Have you ever considered that life resembles a video game?

This reflection spans about four to five years of my teenage life. During a time when my body was maturing—my skin, muscles, and bones were all changing—there was another part of me that wasn't evolving as it should have: my personal growth. I attribute this stagnation to being 'AFK' in real life.

For those unfamiliar, 'AFK' stands for 'Away From Keyboard.' It's a phrase commonly used in gaming to indicate when a player steps away from their game but plans to return shortly. If you have a game open but are off doing something else—whether that's using another app or even sleeping—you’re effectively AFK.

In my case, this term was often typed out by my eager fingers as I spent countless hours engrossed in video games. When I wasn't playing, I was watching others play and daydreaming about my next gaming session. Being AFK in a game means you're not progressing; likewise, if you're gaming, you might be AFK in real life.

The thrilling entertainment was a delightful escape for my developing mind, so why not indulge? My grades were slipping, but as long as it didn't jeopardize my gaming time, it didn't seem like a big deal. My physical health was lagging behind my peers, but I rationalized it by thinking some kids are just naturally more athletic. And when I noticed my social skills faltering, I attributed it to being introverted rather than acknowledging the hours I spent immersed in virtual worlds instead of real-life interactions.

I found myself perplexed by my parents' increasing frustration with my gaming habits. Surely, if they understood how enjoyable these games were, they'd join me instead of claiming I was "playing too much" or "addicted." It felt absurd to consider gaming a problem when it was simply my hobby.

When hobbies were discussed at school, I was often taken aback until I realized that gaming was my own. However, I was blind to the fact that, unlike other activities that can enhance real-world skills—like swimming, running, writing, or engaging in team sports—gaming offered little tangible benefit. It didn't contribute to character development, wisdom, or self-esteem as other hobbies do.

Before you present me with a list of video game benefits, let me clarify: I’ve been there. I once wrote an essay highlighting advantages like improved hand-eye coordination and stress relief. Yet, I believe that healthier hobbies provide those benefits more abundantly. The negatives of gaming far outweigh its limited positives.

Often, my teenage mind would find itself drifting toward thoughts of gaming instead of focusing on important tasks. Everything else felt dull compared to the vibrant colors and exhilarating gameplay that gaming provided. In addition, there are serious concerns about inactivity, disrupted sleep, poor posture, and video game addiction.

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I could hear the argument: "It's not that serious." However, having faced the consequences of being AFK in real life, I genuinely wish I had stopped gaming sooner, rather than at 19. My potential was wasted on fleeting pixels on a screen.

As a former avid gamer, I loved the thrill of gaming, especially when shared with friends. It was often the motivation to get out of bed, and sometimes the reason I stayed up late. While gaming can be incredibly entertaining, it can also blind you to how it constrains your potential and drains your cognitive resources. Although it helped me through tough times, in my experience, it was a contributing factor to my struggles.

If you're a passionate gamer, I don’t expect you to see my perspective right away. It’s a realization that dawns over time—a feeling that perhaps you’re not pursuing the best version of yourself. That’s the real downside of being AFK in life.

Gaming is also one of the biggest distractions many of us face daily. People often say, "Gaming is fine in moderation." I agree! But how many gamers truly manage to moderate their playtime? Few play for just 25 or 30 minutes a day; most exceed healthy limits. It’s not uncommon for games to remind players, "You've been playing for too long; take a break."

If I come off as extreme, that's perfectly okay. My former self would have thought I was out of my mind, and never would he have imagined quitting gaming voluntarily.

Now, I’m grateful for leaving gaming behind. My future self will undoubtedly appreciate and take pride in this decision.

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This video explores the consequences of gaming on personal growth and highlights the importance of balancing virtual fun with reality.