Overview
I’ll admit it. I have a hard time focusing. And when times were mentally tough it was even worse. My kids still pick on me when I space out. I'll admit it, there's a lot going on in my head. 🙂
I started getting into the Pomodoro technique. Here are a couple of things I tried which helped me block time.
The Pomodoro Technique
From wikipedia
“The Pomodoro® Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo[1] in the late 1980s.[2] The technique uses a timer to break down work into intervals, traditionally 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks. Each interval is known as a pomodoro, from the Italian word for ‘tomato‘, after the tomato-shaped kitchen timer that Cirillo used as a university student.”
iPhone – Free
You can always use the timer on your phone.
- Set it for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, take a 5 minute break.
- Set it for 25 minutes again.
- Do this 4 times. It will equal 2 hours of solid work.
Apple Watch – Free

I use my Apple Watch timer and set it for 25 or 25 increments when working.
Here's how I set it up:
- Change your watch face to show the timer.
- When you're ready to start, click on the timer and choose 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break.
- Start the timer again.
- Do this 4 times. This will give you 2 solid hours.
Here's a link for the instructions.
Apps
Bear Focus Timer (BFT) – free

Lately while at work, I’ll use the bear app. This is now my favorite tool and I've accomplished so much more with it.
Here's how it works.
- I'll put on a set of headphones
- Open up the app
- Then turn my phone face down
- When I turn my phone over, white noise plays in the headphones.
This does 2 things.
- It causes me to stop picking up my phone. You will be surprised how many times you will try to pick up your phone.
- I start to pick up my phone and I pause and think, “Do I really need to check my phone?” And I go back to work. Therefore, you won't check email, texts, etc. Focus on what's important.
Here's a link to see some more info.