5 Steps to a Focus-Friendly PC

By Joshua on January 21 2009

The problem for a lot of web workers is that we need focus, but we work with computers that allow us to program a steady stream of distractions into our day. The following steps assume that you've already turned off email and Twitter notifications (and any other incoming distractions).

1. Hide the Windows taskbar

Though the Windows taskbar is great when you need it, most of the time it is just a distraction. Ideally, you shouldn't see the taskbar unless you need it. To set this up:

1. Right click on the taskbar
2. Click Properties
3. Place a check beside "auto-hide the taskbar"
4. Click OK.

Now your taskbar will be hidden unless you move your mouse to the bottom of the screen, or hit the Start button on your keyboard.

2. Install Enso

Humanized Enso is a task launching and shortcut program. But unlike other launchers, you don't have to memorize obscure key combinations. Just hold down the caps-lock key and type "open program." That's it; your program is open.

This means that you never have to go searching through the start menu when you just need to open notepad for a second. It also means you don't have to open up the distraction-filled taskbar to switch programs.

3. Install Chrome

Google Chrome is the minimalist web browser. By default it only displays the navigation bar and open tabs, though you can also turn on a bookmarks bar. By keeping things simple, Chrome reduces the visual and mental clutter of using the web to a minimum.

4. Create a standalone browser for each web application you use

Chrome also allows you to create standalone web browsers for your web applications. These standalone browsers don't even include the distractions of tabs or navigation. Are you checking Basecamp frequently, or always writing new posts for your blog? Create a browser just for them.

1. Go to your web application's main work screen in Chrome
2. Click the page icon at the upper right
3. Select "Create application shortcuts…"
4. Set the shortcut to appear in the Start menu
5. Click OK.

By adding the shortcut to the Start menu, you can access your web applications with a couple of keystrokes. Just type "open wordpress" and voila! Of course, I also recommend having your credentials saved and remembered so you don't have to login each time.

5. Run your programs in full-screen

Now, when you run your programs in full screen there should be nothing onscreen to distract you from the task at hand. Happy focusing!

Photo credit: Downtown Pictures