Daily Motivation: Power Off to Power Up

I grew up in a house that did not have a television in the living room. If we wanted TV, we had to go elsewhere. The living room was for talking, for family, and friends. And until recently, I didn't understand just how significant that space was.

You see, our home is small. We have an open floor plan to help disguise the lack of square footage but this means that quiet zones are rare. And when the TV is on, there is no escaping it. It sucks us all in. Conversations die, bodies get comfy on the couch, and the television coma sets in. 

Tonight, our routine changed. My husband and I have had pretty busy schedules lately and we've felt like passing ships in the night. Thus, when the kids went to bed, we were thrilled to have just a few minutes to ourselves. We sat down on the couch, stretched our legs, sighed and didn't turn on the TV. Instead, we looked at one another and started talking. 

And we really talked. It wasn't just the typical daily rundown of events. I think there were actually a few "how did you feel about that" statements in there! For nearly 45 minutes, we found time to connect and enjoy each other as a couple.

Sometimes, a good brain drain at the end of the day is just what is needed to relax and recharge. However, I found tonight that a good conversation can do the same thing with exponential results. Tonight, our living room served as it did when I was young -- a place of connection. 

Turn the TV off tonight. Find a friend, spouse, partner or heck, even a pet and find a few moments to chat. I promise you'll love the reward!

Meghan Daniel is a teacher, mother and wife in Denver, Colorado. Meghan writes daily about finding thankfulness in life, love and parenting in her popular blog, Adventures Out West. Follow her on Twitter @mdaniel2.