Frank Chimero wrote an amazing article (here) about how distractions can rob you of more than just time. It was so compelling that I decided to look up some ways I can be better about not giving in to the soft glow of mindless internet browsing, but first some thoughts.
Essentially the following is true; the more time we spend exploring unnecessary things on facebook, craigslist, or blogs the less time we have to create something we are truly proud of. We are usually reduced to the few remaining remnants of the day and are frustrated when we can’t create something great. Now, it must be noted that I am not talking about extremes (i.e. abolishing facebook and twitter), but just putting things in balance and moderation. I also don’t write this to be condemning. I honesty believe that taking time away from a project is an essential part or the creative process, but to quote Frank “We’re put here to be productive, not distracted.”
It all boils down to this, why wouldn’t we want to be people who invest fully in worthwhile things? At the end of the day do we want know that we were able to focus and produce the best product we could, or walk away with a lack of accomplishment?
As a designer this is something I have a really hard time with. It doesn’t mean that I will never look at blogs or facebook, but I will implement tools to help secure more time focused on the important things. Here are some resources that I am going to try and see if it makes a difference. You should too.
TEUXDEUX: is a really simple to-do list app. Its stunningly simple and really well designed, two things that are very important.
SELFCONTROL: is a web app that allows you to “blacklist” certain sites (facebook, twitter…) for a specified amount of time and not matter what you do, you will not be able to get onto that site.
CONCENTRATE: is $29 but has loads of bells and whistles, one feature even growls at you to remind you to stay on track.
I hope this helps, and if your’e not like me and have amazing discipline then let us know other tools to help.
