Jigsaw puzzles can be a great way to relax and de-stress, especially if you have the time for it. It’s therapeutic in more ways than one! If that sounds like something your work might not allow or approve of them think again because we’re about to tell all why everyone loves building these little guys so much.
Jigsaw Puzzle Addiction: Reasons Why We Can’t Stop Playing
If you’re anything like us, you’ve probably tried your hand at jigsaw puzzles before. And if you have, chances are you got addicted! There’s just something about piecing together different-shaped pieces of cardboard that is strangely satisfying, regardless of how long it takes to complete the puzzle. But what is it about jigsaw puzzles that make them so addictive? Here are some reasons:
1. It relaxes us:
A lot of people use jigsaw puzzles as a form of meditation because it requires focus and attention, but in a way that is calming and satisfying. It’s a great way to take a break from work or life stressors and just relax.
2. The sense of accomplishment
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of finally completing a jigsaw puzzle. It can be quite addicting actually! The sense of accomplishment you get from completing one is enough to make you want to start another one right away.
3. They’re (usually) pretty
Jigsaw puzzles come in all sorts of designs, from landscapes and animals to abstract art. And since you’re usually working on them for a long period of time, it’s nice to have something pretty to look at while you’re doing it.
4. They force us to take breaks
Working on jigsaw puzzles can be pretty intense, especially if you’re trying to finish it in a short amount of time. But the good thing is, it forces you to take breaks in between so you don’t get too frustrated or overwhelmed.
5. Helps with problem-solving skills
Jigsaw puzzles are great for developing problem-solving skills. You have to think about what pieces go where and how they fit together. It’s a great way to exercise your brain!
6. Keeps our minds sharp
Working on jigsaw puzzles regularly has been shown to keep our minds sharp as we age. So not only are they fun, but they’re also good for us!
7. Gets us off screens
In today’s world, it’s easy to get lost in our phones or computers and forget to take a break from the screens. Jigsaw puzzles provide a much-needed break from all the screen time and help us focus on something else for a while.
8. Can be social
Jigsaw puzzles are often seen as a solo activity, but they can actually be quite social! If you do them with friends or family, you can have some quality time together while working on something.
Signs You Might Be Addicted to Jigsaw Puzzles
If you find yourself frequently buying jigsaw puzzles, or if you can’t seem to stop once you start, you might be addicted! Here are some signs that you might have a jigsaw puzzle addiction:
1. You have more than one jigsaw puzzle going at a time.
2. You’ve started doing jigsaw puzzles as a form of procrastination.
3. You get frustrated easily when you can’t find the right piece.
4. You spend more time than you’d like to admit working on jigsaw puzzles.
5. You have a hard time stopping once you start.
6. You feel a sense of accomplishment when you finish a jigsaw puzzle.
7. You find yourself buying more jigsaw puzzles than you can actually finish.
8. You feel anxious or stressed when you’re not working on a jigsaw puzzle.
If you find yourself relating to any of these signs, it’s possible that you might be addicted to jigsaw puzzles. But don’t worry, it’s not a bad thing! Jigsaw puzzles are a great way to relax and take a break from the stresses of everyday life. So if you find yourself getting addicted, just embrace it and enjoy the puzzles!
Tips for solving jigsaw puzzles
- Relax and take your time: Don’t try to rush through it, or you’ll only get frustrated.
- Start with the edge pieces first: That way you can create a frame to work within.
- Work in small sections: It’s easier to find pieces that way, and you won’t get as overwhelmed. The puzzle pieces will also be less likely to get mixed up.
- Use a jigsaw puzzle mat: It’ll make it easier to work on the puzzle and you can roll it up for easy storage.
- Sort the pieces by color or shape: That way you can eliminate some of the pieces and narrow down your options.
- Take breaks: Working on jigsaw puzzles can be pretty intense, so make sure to take breaks in between to avoid getting frustrated.
Difference between jigsaw puzzles to other puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles are unique in that they require you to put together a picture from individual pieces. Other types of puzzles include crosswords, Sudoku, and word searches. Jigsaw puzzles are typically more challenging than these other types of puzzles, but they can also be more rewarding when you finally complete them.
Sudoku is a logic-based puzzle that requires you to fill in a 9×9 grid with numbers. Word searches are puzzles where you have to find specific words hidden in a grid of letters. Crosswords are puzzles where you have to fill in blank spaces with words that fit the clues given. Jigsaw puzzles are different from these other types of puzzles in that they require you to use both logic and creative thinking to complete them.
Take Away: Jigsaw Puzzle Addiction
A lot of people love puzzles, but jigsaw puzzles are a different level of addiction. With their unique challenge and the sense of accomplishment in the completed puzzle, it’s no wonder that people can’t get enough of them. Jigsaw puzzles are a great way to relax, relieve stress, and take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you find yourself relating to any of the signs of jigsaw puzzle addiction, don’t worry—you’re not alone! Embrace your love of puzzles and enjoy the challenge. Happy puzzling!