Cord Cutting Reflections: A Decade of Streaming and What I'd Miss Most

Back in 2011, I took the plunge and cut the cord. This wasn't a spur-of-the-moment decision; I'd spent two years meticulously analyzing my TV viewing habits and comparing the costs of cable versus streaming.  In 2009, the numbers didn't quite add up, but by 2010, it was clear that streaming was the more economical choice. So, I embraced the world of on-demand content, antennas, and nascent streaming services.

Fast forward to today, and the streaming landscape has transformed. While I initially focused on the financial benefits of cord cutting, my decade-long streaming journey has revealed something unexpected: the true value lies in control.

The Power of On-Demand

Before cutting the cord, my trusty TiVo gave me a taste of TV freedom. I could record shows, skip commercials, and watch at my own pace. This shift to on-demand viewing fundamentally changed how I consumed content.  Live TV became almost irrelevant, with the exception of sports, particularly college football.

Even after all these years, on-demand remains the most satisfying aspect of streaming. It aligns perfectly with my desire to control my viewing experience. I can choose what I want to watch and when I want to watch it, without being bound by a broadcast schedule.

What I'd Miss Most

If I were to return to the world of traditional cable, the financial hit would be noticeable. But the real loss would be the autonomy I've come to cherish.  The ability to curate my own TV experience, free from the constraints of live programming, is something I wouldn't readily give up.

Beyond the Dollars and Cents

While cord cutting initially offered a way to save money, it has evolved into something more significant. It's about empowerment, flexibility, and having the freedom to shape my entertainment on my own terms.

In the end, cord cutting isn't just about saving money; it's about gaining control. And that's something I'd truly miss. My Streaming Life couldn' bear that.