Scripted Reality

Continuing with yesterday’s post I just wanted to comment that we all know that reality TV is scripted; don’t we? Well I am at least fairly certain that it is and if it isn't I am practically sure that it is at least pushed and prodded in a certain direction. I bring all this up because of the comments that I have noticed on the web. I have started to watch TV through my computer. This means that I need to go to the network site to select my episode. Under the episodes is usually a place for comments. I have been astonished at how many people enter into conversations about what should or should not happen on the show. The shows I watch are generally not of the reality venue and are obviously actors working off a script, yet there are incredible comments from fans who are enthralled with the lives of these characters.

So I just have to ask again: We do know that television is not real life, right?

This could be the biggest scheme of all time. We are all watching (and living) our lives through TV. And now with reality TV it has gotten worse. We need to realize that the term “reality” has been newly reinvented. And many of us are now changing our lives to mirror the “reality” that we see. While I have not shifted my life (that much) I do feel the influence of all of this.  And I guess that is what is bothering me today.  

What is so troubling is the way we are shaping our world based on how we are watching and absorbing this. I am not sure how we turn this around and let everyone know what is going on. Yet I really think we have to try.  Start reminding everyone in your life that TV is not real life. It is supposed to just be an entertaining diversion and not an obsession.

The Obsession Test (or how to tell if a TV show runs your life):

• Do you think about a character and mentally note suggestions about how they should do things differently?
• Do you cancel social appointments so that you can watch “your” show?
• Have you named a pet after a show character?
• Do you secretly want to appear on the show because you know that it would change your life (or because you secretly want to tell off one of the characters)?
• Do you want to buy the clothes your favorite character wears because you know they would want you to look as good as they do?
• Have you noticed that you are quoting dialogue from a show in your everyday life and you really think it makes you sound more real?

If you answer yes to all of these questions you have passed the test; you have stepped away from the life you could be living and have let someone else tell you what is real. Quickly, get off the couch and go watch the sunrise on a new day. Perhaps you will find the inspiration you need to step into life. We have missed you!