Why I Took a Break From Gaming And What It Did for Me

Gaming was a huge part of my life from as early as 7 or 9 years old. I started with SSX Tricky and SSX On Tour, then moved on to games like GTA IV, Modern Warfare 2, CS:GO, and Valorant. It was more than a hobby. It was where I went to relax, focus, and pour my energy into something that made sense at the time.

Between the ages of 16 and 20, it became my world. Graphics were better, the communities were strong, and the gameplay was addicting. I was spending hours each day playing. It felt good… until it didn’t.

One day, I asked myself a question I couldn’t shake:

“What would it look like if I still played like this at 30 - 40?”

And honestly? I didn’t like the image in my head.

Gaming had always felt fun. But as I started growing older and yes, I know I’m only 22 I began to feel that shift. That spark was fading. Not because gaming changed… but because I did.

These days, my time is better spent on things that move me forward.

Like Exploring creative ideas.

Or Building things that actually last.

It’s been fascinating to see how the brain changes as you grow. Things I loved three years ago don’t hit the same anymore. And I’ve accepted that. It’s part of moving forward.

When I took a huge break, something shifted. Now when I even think about going back, it’s like my brain sends out a quiet warning:

“Careful. That’s a rabbit hole.”

So I don’t go back.

At least, not like before.

As I write this, I can say with confidence:

I don’t miss it.

I’ve found better challenges things that make me grow. Things that feel real. I create. I work. I build. And that feels better than hours spent chasing pixels.

Will I return to gaming someday?

Maybe. Here and there.

But now? I choose it. It doesn’t choose me.