In a world where distractions are the norm, there are a few techniques I use to keep that to a minimum. Music and a nice pair of headphones is my current solution. I recently discovered Focus@Will, a music streaming service that’s designed specifically for this. For me, I’ve always leaned to Daft Punk and the Inception sound track as my go-to tracks for focused work. Focus@Will curates music with the optimal tempo, rhythm and tones to get into the state of flow.
There are channels that are spa and nature, but also classical music and high energy music. Each channel helps you tune in specifically for your work demands. There are also special channels for brainwave entrainment, tuned to lock your brain into a specific frequency. The effects are temporary and only last when the music is play. I compare this to a meditative state.
All this sounds like a bunch of BS and that’s what I thought initially. I gave the free trial a run, no credit card needed. I’m generally a skeptic so the trial was worth putting this service to the test. I’m currently working on a high stress project with multiple workstreams. Focus is critical especially since heads down time is limited. When I do get time to work at my desk, I want to make the best use of the time. I have found that putting the headphones on and playing the ambient channel (my favorite) keeps me in the zone. It’s a different focus than my typical Daft Punk playing. I’m much more zoned out and tuned into the work in front of me. The only downside is I’ll be completely disconnected from my environment and people have to wave me down to get my attention (isn’t that a good thing?).
I rarely endorse a service but in this case, this is money well spent. I highly recommend Focus@Will and recommend you give it a trial run (affiliate link). I’ll report back in a few months after more usage.