I LOVE it when a client TEACHES ME something that is a game-changer!!
I am working with a remarkable woman as her coach and organizer. This client works so hard to manage the many stressors that life has thrown at her, and it's a privilege to be there to support her. She introduced me to Focusmate months ago, but I finally tried it for myself last week and....WOW!!!
So, what is FOCUSMATE? It's a productivity tool!
How does it work? Focusmate pairs you with an accountability partner for a live, virtual co-working session.
Why did I need this? I have a project that feels overwhelming, and I've handled that by avoiding it. Sound familiar? I worked with my Focusmate accountability partner and made a much needed dent - enough to make me want to keep going. YAY!
Fast facts about FOCUSMATE:
- each session is 50 minutes in length
- you can schedule up to 3 FREE productivity sessions a week, or buy the monthly plan for unlimited sessions ($5/month)
- after a brief introduction explaining your task to your accountability partner, you get to work
- you are on camera with your partner, but you can mute yourself
- you schedule a session based on your timing needs and Focusmate matches you to a partner
My partner in the session was a woman working on a novel. She told me she books multiple sessions a day because the accountability of working with another person keeps her focused and honest.
If you've read my blog post "Body Double", the concept behind Focusmate will resonate with you. When two people are in a room (in this case, a virtual room), they do not need to be engaged with each other to experience the positive symbiotic energy of working side-by-side that encourages focus and concentration.
FOCUSMATE'S website explains it as follows, "Research in psychology and behavioral science shows that regular human connection reduces the likelihood that a worker will procrastinate or become distracted. The Focusmate virtual coworking model is rooted in evidence-based approaches to productivity, and systems of accountability developed by leading executive and leadership coaches."
As a society we are much more accustomed to connecting with others using video conferencing, and with Focusmate, it's really just another form of being next to someone in the library or coffee shop while you both work!
Also, you can use Focusmate to accomplish any kind of task - it doesn't need to be at a desk! You can use it for doing household chores, practicing an instrument, cleaning out your closet, etc.
Have a wonderful week,
