Cal Newport defines deep work as the ability to focus without distractions on cognitively demanding tasks.
The belief is that we can accomplish more in less time if we master a high level of focus on the task at hand.
By establishing a deep work routine or identifying what primes you for flow state, you increase your chances of embracing this “superpower.”
There are the basic routines of using the washroom and filling up my water bottle before diving into deep work.
In this article, I want to highlight a few helpful apps that help me get into the flow and stay focused.
1. Opal
Opal is my preferred app blocker on my phone. I’ve created a daily schedule to block distracting apps and websites during most of my morning and afternoon.
This app isn’t exactly a part of my deep work routine, but it helps me stay focused and away from distracting apps.
As someone who wants to keep my social media apps installed rather than deleting them, Opal has become an indispensable part of my phone usage.
The free version of the app is actually enough for my needs. They do offer a pro version that provides stricter blocking that is more difficult to bypass and tracks past screen time and focus sessions.
2. Endel
I began by setting the mood with the Focus soundscape from the Endel app.
The app offers a diverse range of soundscapes designed to help in focus, relaxation, and sleep. Additionally, it includes guided exercises such as box breathing and body scan.
For one, the soundscapes from Endel are scientifically backed. Secondly, they serve as a clear and constant signal to myself that I want to start focusing.
As a bonus for those who appreciate the minimalist aesthetic, I thoroughly enjoy the monochromatic interface on Endel.
I pay an annual subscription to unlock all of Endel, which is nice to have, but it’s not something I would recommend to everyone.
Alternatively, if you have a subscription to YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Music, you can also find playlists for focus on those platforms.
3. SelfControl
The next step in my routine is using SelfControl to block distracting websites on my Mac.
This is applicable to the majority of cases when I’m working on my Mac. I usually set a block duration that’s longer than what I think I need for the task.
The reason I chose this app in particular is that there’s no straightforward way to unblock once the timer begins. In contrast, most other website blocker apps and extensions can be easily disabled or bypassed.
It’s a free and open-source Mac app that can be especially helpful when you're low on mental energy for self-control.
4. SyncTasks
Lastly, I’ll select one or a few tasks from my to-do app, SyncTasks, and start a focus session.
For context, I’m currently working on SyncTasks with the original developer. Our goal is to create the best minimalist to-do app, in addition to the convenience of syncing with Notion and Apple Reminders.
In “focus” mode, the app presents your selected tasks in white text against a black background, and it only highlights one task at a time, even if you’ve selected multiple.
I’ll then place my phone on the charger with the task I’m working on clearly displayed.
This way, my mind is now focused on that single task. In other words, I’m less likely to get sidetracked or even attempt to multitask.
SyncTasks’ focus feature is a pro feature. There’s a one-time upgrade to its pro plan, which is otherwise free to use as a basic to-do app.