One of the things I realized early on was our limited willpower capacity.
In the face of difficult choices, our willpower often gives up, and hence, it is important to design systems and processes that reduce our dependence on willpower.
E.g.) Rather than trying to fight the temptation of eating a bar of chocolate, it is better not to have chocolates around.
Today, we have tools that help us design some amazing systems to help us get more done. Here are the ones that I use extensively
Freedom - It blocks apps on my phone and websites on my computer during my deep work sessions (e.g., right now). Helped me change my habits dramatically.
Focusmate - Block a session with a stranger, decide the tasks you will focus on, and just do it. I never thought it would work, but it does!
Evernote - Especially its web clipper. The moment I feel tempted to read an article (while working on something else), I just clip it to Evernote and read it later. Same for emails. You can forward the emails to Evernote and read them when you have the time.
Brain.fm - Music to get you in the focus zone. It works like a charm!
Notion - This is not specifically for focus, but Notion has been a savior in organizing my work. This tool has grown significantly in the last year or so
I started by using the free versions of all these tools but soon realized the value of a full subscription and did that.
A little investment in these tools can go a long way in helping you achieve your goals.
P.S. No, I don’t get any affiliate fee for sharing these here
Have a focused week ahead. See you next Sunday!
I have had to discontinue my podcast, Bring Back Focus, due to personal circumstances over the past six months. However, I want to reinitiate it. Let me know if you have guests that I can interview for the show.