How to survive Civilization 4
Civ 4 is best enjoyed by people who have no responsibilities in life–no kids, no job, no school, no immediate need for food, etc. If you insist on playing despite your worldly duties, I suggest taking care of anything critical before starting the game. That includes bathing, paying your mortgage, attending a job interview, etc.
Playing “for just a few hours” is not really an option, unless a few hours for you means 14 hours. Once you are in the proper mindset and you understand the implications of getting involved in Civ 4, you are ready to start. Like a strong riptide pulling you out to sea, your best bet is to surrender to the overwhelming force of the ocean until you reach calmer waters where you can tread water until the tide comes back in.
Don’t try to fight Civ 4, it will only make you feel guilty and weak. Ride it out for a few days or a few weeks until you get it out of your system and you cannot bear the thought of playing another turn. Take a deep breath and relax; it’s time to pick up the pieces of your neglected life.