I’ve played dota for 20 years +- (still only a 3.5k scrub) I still enjoy the game but I know it’s having a negative impact on me overall. I am happily married, my wife doesn’t mind my gaming, but I know we’d probably have a stronger relationship and I’d do more things in life if I toned it down. I’m wondering for people that have stopped playing dota aggressively (over 15+ hours a week) and either quit straight up or toned it back to maybe 5 hours a week or so. Any advice on mentality or thoughts on it. We all know dota is addictive, and I find myself sometimes not giving a shit, and tanking MMR, then deciding to care and getting it all back. I have a hard time stepping fully back and not wanting to play in my downtime (unless real life gets in the way). Any insight on what you did that brought dota away from being a major time sink in your life would be appreciated. I don’t wanna fully stop, as my best friend and I use it as a way to connect since we live in seperate locations, but I probably only play 4-6 games with him week, I just want to find a way to not have it envelop my life so much. Sorry for the rant, appreciate all the advice in advance!
You are not enjoying dota, not for most of the time. Recognize and acknowledge that, then when you find yourself using dota as an excuse to get out of something you don’t wanna face in real life, or as an easy way to get that dopamine release without actual hard work, stop. Take control of your life.
When you have that control you have earned the right the play a game or two.