It was seven weeks ago when I decided enough was enough—I took our TV off the wall, and frankly, I don't see it making a comeback.*

It's funny how such a common household item had become a point of contention, sparking friction within the family. My son had started to demand brightly coloured cartoons and a moment's peace wasn't worth the withdrawal. So... I ripped it off like a band-aid with a dramatic, "Right, it's going!" and everything changed.In the absence of the TV looming in the living room, we found ourselves slightly untethered but that didn't last long. I've picked up drum reading, dusted off my uke, shuffled through new card games while rekindling old flames like Solitaire.

The chessboard and backgammon have seen some action, and we've been extremely busy with magic tricks. And then there's the small felted dog....

My husband and I have found ourselves gripped by crime meets ghost story podcast aptly titled "Ghost Story,"

The most remarkable transformation? Our arguments have plummeted by 90%, swapped for moments of laughter and pottering. The experience has shown us that while time is a precious commodity, and TV offers a moment of relaxation, there's so much joy waiting beyond the remote control. Indeed, I did miss catching my favorite episodes, and my husband hasn't had the chance to experience the latest binge-worthy series. But witnessing the family master "The Four Robbers Card Trick" together—well, it's a skill for life.

I encourage you—no, I challenge you—to try a TV-free month. What interests lie dormant? It's not about depriving ourselves of leisure but redefining what it means together.

Challenge yourself and your loved ones to a TV-free month and let me know what happens. Will bingeing turn to bonding?

UPDATE: The TV hasn't made a comeback and its been over 6 months.