Try An App Blocker
This is part of my Tech Workers' Guide To Distraction Free Work
To be completely honest, I’ve never used an app blocker. But I’ve heard stories of people who swear by them.
I did a Google search and discovered that some app blockers will block specific websites while others completely turn your off Internet. Others will pause your email or hide social media notifications. Some app blockers are programs you install, while others are Chrome/Firefox extensions.
There were a surprising number of options, and you’ll need to research which is best for you.
Here are some Google searches to get you started:
- website blocker
- app blocker
- software limit distractions
Take action: Experiment with different app blockers.
Further Reading
- 4 of the best anti-distraction apps for deep work
- Get focused – 13 tools to eliminate distractions today
Tech Workers' Guide To Distraction Free Work
Common Problems
Principles
Practices: Just Say No
- Just say No
- Stop Looking For Drama
- Beware Of Taking On Extra Responsibility
- Make an “I won’t do” list
Practices: Say Yes
- Track your distractions
- Stay focused with a To Do list
- Make a “Big Rock” list
- Follow the 2-minute rule
- Try the Pomodoro Technique
- Make a list of questions
Practices: Control Your Physical Environment
- Find your Den of Productivity
- Eliminate distracting belongings
- Limit disruptive noise
- Listen to music
- Silence your phone
Practices: Control Your Digital Environment
- Close your email
- Leave social media
- Close your browser tabs
- Limit distractions from Slack
- Try an app blocker
Practices: Get Organized
What do books say about distraction free work?
“You could try to pound your head against the wall and think of original ideas — or you can cheat by reading them in books.”
—Patrick Collison