Khaberni - Amid continuous distraction and smartphone addiction, a category of applications known as "focus apps" has emerged, promising to help users accomplish their tasks without interruptions.
These apps rely on tools such as timers, blocking distracting applications, and digital reward systems that encourage staying in focus mode, according to a report by "Science Alert".
The idea behind these apps is simple: when you start a work session, the app asks you to stay away from social or entertainment apps for a specific period, and in return, it offers symbolic rewards if you adhere to the focus until the end of the session.
Why do we need them in the first place?
Psychology specialists believe that difficulty in focusing is not due to a decline in our cognitive abilities, but rather to weak "self-regulation". When work feels boring or stressful, we look for quick relief, and often, the smartphone is the easiest option, even if it disrupts completing our tasks.
Studies have indicated that multitasking and continuous digital notifications increase distraction for some people, making focusing in the modern work environment harder than it used to be.
How do focus apps work?
Focus apps rely on a method known as "gamification," which is using game elements in a non-entertainment context. Instead of just counting time, these apps add virtual characters, points, and rewards to motivate the user to continue.
One notable example is the Focus Friend app, which asks the user to set a focus timer, while a virtual character works in the background. If the user exits focus mode and opens prohibited apps, progress stops and the rewards disappear, creating a psychological incentive to continue.
Do these ideas succeed?
So far, scientific evidence on the effectiveness of focus apps is limited. Some studies have shown that users like these apps, but they are not always used in the long term and may be less effective than simpler solutions, such as reducing notifications or switching the phone to grayscale mode.
Experts believe that the enjoyment of using the app does not necessarily mean improved productivity, because real focus is not only measured by the number of minutes we spent away from the phone, but also by the quality of the work accomplished.
How can we benefit from them?
If you find it difficult to resist checking your phone while working, focus apps might assist you as a supportive tool, not a final solution. Experts recommend using them during specific sessions, with clear tasks set, and evaluating their benefits after a period of use.
Experts caution against relying completely on them, as these apps cannot address the deep-rooted causes of distraction, such as anxiety, fatigue, or lack of motivation.
In the end, the most effective solution might be understanding what drives us to distraction and making conscious decisions on how to deal with it, rather than just downloading a new app.
