I've been doing professional brainwork for years now, and one thing that has always accompanied me is the question of how to get and stay focused. Today, I'm going to share some of my methods with you.

Firstly, this is not a science-backed blog post. I will simply present what works for me.

What are my tools?

This is an open list that I may update in the future.

• be prepared
• a pomodoro timer
• /etc/hosts
• a sticky note
• music & noises (+ headphones)
• breaks
• coffee

Be prepared

I currently use Logseq (https://logseq.com/) as my knowledge management system, and I also keep track of my tasks in my daily journal there. I think it's important to decide on the task you want to tackle and the outcomes you want to achieve. So, before you start your focused work, make sure you have all the necessary details at hand. Be as precise as possible — your brain will thank you for it!

A pomodoro timer

To be honest, the Pomodoro Technique kind of works for me, but I'm still struggling with it because I'm probably not very disciplined with it. What I can say is that it helps if you choose a tool that is quick and easy to use and looks and feels good.

/etc/hosts

If you're a tech person, you probably know about this one. /etc/hosts is a file found on UNIX-like systems. In very simple terms, it allows you to map names (hosts) to IP addresses. To block time-consuming websites, I use an automatically run script to change the content of this file. There are more convenient solutions, such as browser add-ons, but this one works best for me.

A sticky note

During a focus period, your brain will bring thoughts to the surface. I write these down — not all of them, of course — which helps to clear my mind. If it's important, I won't forget it. For me, a physical note works best here. I usually throw away this sticky note after a few days and move stuff to my digital notes.

Music & noises

I can focus better when I'm listening to music or other relaxing sounds (for example https://moodist.mvze.net). Headphones are better than speakers.

Breaks

If you use the Pomodoro Technique, you'll naturally get this. I typically take too few breaks, so this one is a reminder for me as well.

Coffee

☕ I admit it, this little drug is part of a productive day for me.

That's it for today, let me know how you make your brain turn energy into positive results! 🧠

#logseq #focus #work #pomodoro

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