“Either you run the day, or the day runs you.” ~ Jim Rohn

Introduction:

When you are an entrepreneur, especially a solopreneur, so much of running a business lies in your own two hands - especially if you are newer in business, and don't have the budget to hire staff.

Even now, after years of running my own business, I often feel at the end of the day that I was busy, but didn't get anything done. SO frustrating!

The first question is, WHY use a productivity timer?

1. Time management

You only have so many hours in a day. When you can manage your time more effectively by breaking tasks into manageable pieces and tracking how you use your time during the day, you will get a LOT more done.

2. Focus and concentration

Productivity timers can enhance your focus and concentration, allowing you to work more effectively and deliver better results for your clients.

3. Accountability

Through tracking the time you spend on tasks and projects, using a productivity timer can hold you more accountable and help you identify areas for improvement.

For me, the big thing was being able to check off "to-do" items and seeing my progress, rather than having felt busy all day but not able to identify anything I actually accomplished.

4. That all-important work/life balance

When you work in a structured way, you reduce the risk of burnout and improve your overall wellbeing.

For example, when you have a timer that reminds you to step away from the computer at regular intervals, your eyes (and back) are much happier for it.

You also become far more productive when you know you have 25 minutes to get something done - it's so much easier to focus than when there is no time limit.

With that said, here are 4 options of productivity timers, and how they can help.

1. Pomodoro

This app is based on the Pomodoro Technique. You work in 25-minute "sprints", then take a 5 minute break between sprints. After completing 4 sprints, you take a longer break, like 30 minutes.

Pros:

• Encourages focused work intervals followed by short breaks, which can boost productivity and prevent burnout

• Simple and easy to use, requiring minimal setup

Cons:

• May not be suitable for tasks that require extended periods of concentration without breaks

• Some individuals may find the strict time intervals too rigid for their workflow

Suggestion:

• For timed sessions like this, my preferred app is called Cuckoo (yes, like a cuckoo clock). You can choose the length of the work and break sessions, so it's more flexible than some other apps. Plus, I love its whimsy.

• You can check it out here: https://cuckoo.team/

2. Forest

Remember the Tamagotchi toys back in the 90's where you had to take care of it or it would die? This timer reminds me a lot of that game.

Forest is a unique productivity timer that helps you stay focused by growing virtual trees. When you set a timer, a virtual tree starts to grow - but if you leave the app to check social media or do other non-productive tasks, your tree dies. It's a fun way to gamify your productivity.

Pros:

• Gamifies productivity by rewarding focused work with virtual trees, making it fun and engaging

• Acts as a visual reminder to stay on task and avoid distractions

• Supports environmental causes by partnering with tree-planting organisations

Cons:

• Some users may find the gamification aspect distracting

• Lacks advanced features compared to other productivity timers

• It is mobile-based, and I don't believe its available in a desktop version.

3. Focus@Will

Pros:

• Provides scientifically designed music channels to enhance your focus and productivity

• Offers a variety of music genres tailored to different personality types and work preferences

• Can create a conducive work environment

Cons:

• Requires a paid subscription for full access to all features and music channels

• Music preference is subjective - what works for someone else may not work for you

Suggestion:

• If you like the sound of Focus@Will, they do have a 7-day trial period

4. Toggl

Toggl is an app that allows you to track the time spent on various tasks or projects. It's useful for Coaches to understand where their time is going, and optimise their schedules accordingly.

Pros:

• Offers comprehensive time tracking capabilities, allowing you to analyse where your time is spent

• Helps you understand your productivity patterns and optimise your schedule

• Integrates with various project management and productivity tools

Cons:

• Requires manual input to track time accurately, which can be time-consuming

• May feel overwhelming if you prefer simpler solutions

Suggestion:

• If you are newer to business - and especially if you are not tech-confident - you'll be happier with something like Cuckoo or Pomodoro

5. Cuckoo

Cuckoo is my personal favourite productivity timer. It's cute, fun, flexible, and effective.

Pros:

• Simple and intuitive - extremely low learning curve

• Customisable - can set the work and break lengths

• Notifications - lets you know when it's time to work and when the break is over

Cons:

• Features are limited compared to some other productivity timers

• No task tracking - just the timer

• Not sure if it's available on all platforms/devices

• Does not sync across devices

• Although if you are working in a group, everyone can sign into the same session

There are a ton of productivity timers out there - these are just a few samples. The best thing you can do is try different ones, until you find what works for you.

Ultimately, productivity timers are valuable tools when you want to enhance your efficiency, focus, and overall productivity. While every timer has its pros and cons, finding the right one depends on your individual preferences and workflow.

When you incorporate a productivity timer into your routine, you can better manage your time, stay focused on important tasks, and ultimately, achieve greater success in your business and coaching practice.

Let's talk productivity timers.

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