#DevDiscuss Archive | Participate

Time for #DevDiscuss! Tonight's topic is STAYING FOCUSED 👀

Rules: - Stay on topic - ALWAYS ALWAYS use hashtag #DevDiscuss - Be NICE/POSITIVE ❤️ - Quoting tweets for clarity is encouraged

kylegalbraith Oct 3 @ 9:03 PM EDT

I am focused on this #DevDiscuss chat. A bit much?

justAfanDavid Oct 3 @ 9:05 PM EDT

#DevDiscuss no music, phone muted, door closed...

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

diegoduarterj Oct 3 @ 9:05 PM EDT

Would be interested to know some tips that help people staying focused. IMHO, Focus is directly proportional to Motivation. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

Malnormalulo Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

If I'm sleepy: chiptunes If I'm wide awake: vaporwave At all times: coffee #DevDiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:01 PM EDT

Time for #DevDiscuss! Tonight's topic is STAYING FOCUSED 👀

amdev83 Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

I try real hard but I fail often. LOL. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

How do you GET focused? When you first sit down to code or get to work, what's your routine to get in the right mindset? #devdiscuss

HM04_ Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

#DevDiscuss Coffee shops, relaxing Spotify playlists, and closing every window that isn't work related.

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

onlybluefeet Oct 3 @ 9:07 PM EDT

Listening to music. #devdiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

ScooterPhoenix Oct 3 @ 9:07 PM EDT

I set timers, keep noise & distractions down, log out of FB, IG & Twitter and just dedicate that time to code 69 mins tops. #devdiscuss

amdev83 Oct 3 @ 9:08 PM EDT

Dubstep actually kinda works for me in the morning. By PM, it’s Buddhist monks chanting. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

Programazing Oct 3 @ 9:08 PM EDT

I'm still figuring that out. I'm hoping to draw some inspiration from tonight's chat. #DevDiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

How do you GET focused? When you first sit down to code or get to work, what's your routine to get in the right mindset? #devdiscuss

lpasqualis Oct 3 @ 9:09 PM EDT

To get focused I make a list of everything I am worried about, forget about it, put my headphones on, and get to work #DevDiscuss

kylegalbraith Oct 3 @ 9:09 PM EDT

Put headphones on with some good music. Minimize Slack, Skype, Email. Open VS and spread all my windows across screen. Go time. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

ChiSenires Oct 3 @ 9:09 PM EDT

Usually I list the things I need to do down on something. It can be on paper or on an app (I use @todoist for that), and I try to list each simple task down so I can get a hold of how many things I need to do for a given time period. #DevDiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

How do you GET focused? When you first sit down to code or get to work, what's your routine to get in the right mindset? #devdiscuss

jordanpittman Oct 3 @ 9:09 PM EDT

Music is a must! Helps get me focused and stay focused. #DevDiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

How do you GET focused? When you first sit down to code or get to work, what's your routine to get in the right mindset? #devdiscuss

diegoduarterj Oct 3 @ 9:09 PM EDT

#DevDiscuss closing slack/email and all tabs in my browser helps a lot. This, along with water+coffee+music really helps me get focused.

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

aykrishnan Oct 3 @ 9:09 PM EDT

If I'm unable to focus, I take a break. Forcing myself to program results in bad code. I return when my focus is back. #devdiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

MarcoCorona92 Oct 3 @ 9:09 PM EDT

If I feel myself getting distracted or losing focus, I close my laptop, and take a five minute walk to get some fresh air #DevDiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:01 PM EDT

Time for #DevDiscuss! Tonight's topic is STAYING FOCUSED 👀

neonrobot_ Oct 3 @ 9:10 PM EDT

Some noise isolating earbuds/headphones & good music or calm background noise has consistently helped me zone into my work #DevDiscuss

kylegalbraith Oct 3 @ 9:10 PM EDT

It is good to know that I am not the only one. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @amdev83, @ThePracticalDev

ChiSenires Oct 3 @ 9:10 PM EDT

Then once I open up all the programs I need to keep on going, I zone out everything else by listening to music. I try to pick songs that I've either heard of so many times already, or instrumentals. #DevDiscuss

lpasqualis Oct 3 @ 9:10 PM EDT

To be able to focus I avoid committing to impossible tasks #DevDiscuss

aandr314 Oct 3 @ 9:10 PM EDT

Keeping ordered lists, asking office mates to leave for extended chats, using @Basecamp todo's with due dates #DevDiscuss

amdev83 Oct 3 @ 9:10 PM EDT

I gotta seek refuge in the Buddha to keep from choking coworkers. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @kylegalbraith, @ThePracticalDev

lpasqualis Oct 3 @ 9:10 PM EDT

To focus I must first understand my goal #DevDiscuss

ScooterPhoenix Oct 3 @ 9:11 PM EDT

I read that someone points all social media url's to 127.0.0.1 in their host file so they CAN'T check messages. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

goldirises Oct 3 @ 9:11 PM EDT

I write down tasks for the day on a sticky note and cross em out as they are accomplished #devdiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

BarretBlake Oct 3 @ 9:11 PM EDT

*looks up from coding* What? Sorry, were you saying something? #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

aandr314 Oct 3 @ 9:11 PM EDT

telling people "could you email me your request" helps a lot to filter things out and keep track #devdiscuss

GaryAsh1969 Oct 3 @ 9:11 PM EDT

I put on my ear buds (no music) close all non work related windows and go (hopefully)😀 #DevDiscuss

Wintermute21 Oct 3 @ 9:11 PM EDT

jazz music, noise cancelling headphones, pomodoro tomato #DevDiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

How do you GET focused? When you first sit down to code or get to work, what's your routine to get in the right mindset? #devdiscuss

kylegalbraith Oct 3 @ 9:11 PM EDT

Ahhh I forgot! I create a list each morning of what I need to accomplish as well. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @aandr314, @basecamp

ChiSenires Oct 3 @ 9:11 PM EDT

A few weeks ago, I found out that Apache by the Incredible Bongo Band has really great beats and it (and similar tunes) helped me focus. #DevDiscuss

lpasqualis Oct 3 @ 9:12 PM EDT

To stay focus, I AVOID relaxing. Flow is not a relaxing state. It is an exciting state of mental arousal and confidence. #DevDiscuss

porto2112 Oct 3 @ 9:12 PM EDT

I usually prefer silence, but it's difficult to have it at work, so I listen to some music and try to avoid Twitter (not easy). #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

DylTee Oct 3 @ 9:12 PM EDT

Listing out everything that needs to get accomplished. Lists are key, that way you can prioritize and not feel overwhelmed #DevDiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

How do you GET focused? When you first sit down to code or get to work, what's your routine to get in the right mindset? #devdiscuss

amdev83 Oct 3 @ 9:12 PM EDT

And serves as a paper trail.. #DevDiscuss

aandr314 Oct 3 @ 9:11 PM EDT

telling people "could you email me your request" helps a lot to filter things out and keep track #devdiscuss

ChiSenires Oct 3 @ 9:12 PM EDT

I used to do Pomodoro back in college, and it seemed to work if I really put my mind into it. 😆 But once I get lazy... oh no, that's the time I either do everything in one sitting or I rarely get anything done. #DevDiscuss

aandr314 Oct 3 @ 9:13 PM EDT

yeah that's what i do, too! Checkboxes in the lab notebook every morning, as @yesthattom does :) #devdiscuss

In reply to @kylegalbraith, @basecamp, @yesthattom

kylegalbraith Oct 3 @ 9:13 PM EDT

This. Is. Hardcore. I am not worthy.... #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ScooterPhoenix, @ThePracticalDev

BarretBlake Oct 3 @ 9:13 PM EDT

Seriously though. I get up and take a quick walk around about every 60-90 minutes. Even if it's just down the hall and back. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

ScooterPhoenix Oct 3 @ 9:13 PM EDT

Me too! It's invigorating to see that list whittle away. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @goldirises, @ThePracticalDev

BunkyFob Oct 3 @ 9:14 PM EDT

At one job, I had a specific album I would start every day with. #devdiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

alephnaught2tog Oct 3 @ 9:14 PM EDT

Co-signing this. Usually shifting the gear *out* of code is much harder...! #DevDiscuss

In reply to @BarretBlake, @ThePracticalDev

ScooterPhoenix Oct 3 @ 9:14 PM EDT

Spotify has the best playlists for that. #focus #DevDiscuss

In reply to @rahulxsharma, @ThePracticalDev

kylegalbraith Oct 3 @ 9:14 PM EDT

Have to break the flow state. 100% agree. Do you set a timer? #DevDiscuss

In reply to @BarretBlake, @ThePracticalDev

alephnaught2tog Oct 3 @ 9:15 PM EDT

Open up everything, earbuds with probably-too-loud music--instrumental, *NO LYRICS*, pref just familiar enough to half-tune out #DevDiscuss

aandr314 Oct 3 @ 9:15 PM EDT

Goal-oriented: I have pictures on my two favourite mentors, to remind me of the goal, possible result, and where i started #devdiscuss

amdev83 Oct 3 @ 9:16 PM EDT

Definitely no lyrics! #DevDiscuss

In reply to @alephnaught2tog

alainakafkes Oct 3 @ 9:16 PM EDT

Honestly... I listen to piano covers of songs from Studio Ghibli films. 😂 #DevDiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

How do you GET focused? When you first sit down to code or get to work, what's your routine to get in the right mindset? #devdiscuss

carnivorous8008 Oct 3 @ 9:16 PM EDT

If I've been coding, I've probably left myself a failing test, so it's easy to get back to it. Haven't found the mgmt equivalent #devdiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

How do you GET focused? When you first sit down to code or get to work, what's your routine to get in the right mindset? #devdiscuss

amdev83 Oct 3 @ 9:16 PM EDT

May I ask who? Are they public figures or just awesome people you know? #DevDiscuss

aandr314 Oct 3 @ 9:15 PM EDT

Goal-oriented: I have pictures on my two favourite mentors, to remind me of the goal, possible result, and where i started #devdiscuss

aandr314 Oct 3 @ 9:17 PM EDT

if you are #phdchat member and interested in how to focus, check out #DevDiscuss hashtag evening via @ThePracticalDev

_NoahJAllen Oct 3 @ 9:17 PM EDT

Hans Zimmer Interstellar soundtrack while writing out problems that need to be solved that day. #DevDiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

How do you GET focused? When you first sit down to code or get to work, what's your routine to get in the right mindset? #devdiscuss

alephnaught2tog Oct 3 @ 9:17 PM EDT

Only timer that genuinely gets me up is the dog, or microwave timer-never turns off unless you go do it manually and it's *loud* #DevDiscuss

In reply to @kylegalbraith, @BarretBlake, @ThePracticalDev

ScooterPhoenix Oct 3 @ 9:17 PM EDT

Yup! Timers are necessary. Sitting is bad for your health. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @kylegalbraith, @BarretBlake, @ThePracticalDev

bendhalpern Oct 3 @ 9:18 PM EDT

If I can knock out non-deep-work early and carve out a good stretch for productivity, I'm well on my way to a good day. #DevDiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

How do you GET focused? When you first sit down to code or get to work, what's your routine to get in the right mindset? #devdiscuss

DevGregory Oct 3 @ 9:19 PM EDT

Turn off all distractions, put on my headphones, put on my fav music and know I need to get work done. #devdiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

How do you GET focused? When you first sit down to code or get to work, what's your routine to get in the right mindset? #devdiscuss

projectedxyz Oct 3 @ 9:19 PM EDT

Assess out of scope or unplanned changes, prioritize with scoped work. Start work #devdiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

shannon_crabill Oct 3 @ 9:19 PM EDT

Gotta get a good, upbeat playlist going #devdiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

pandyzhao Oct 3 @ 9:19 PM EDT

Having a planned yet flexible routine for the morning. It doesn't have to be the same (usually is), just need an idea in my mind #devdiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

ScooterPhoenix Oct 3 @ 9:19 PM EDT

I have a watch that buzzes if I sit too long! #DevDiscuss Sitting is the new smoking, it wreaks havoc on your body.

In reply to @kylegalbraith, @BarretBlake, @ThePracticalDev

shannon_crabill Oct 3 @ 9:20 PM EDT

Yes! That moving has an amazing soundtrack #DevDiscuss

In reply to @_NoahJAllen

sophiaciocca Oct 3 @ 9:20 PM EDT

Put on the #Spotify Deep Focus playlist, get in a comfy position, and get amped about the task at hand #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

IgnoreIntuition Oct 3 @ 9:20 PM EDT

Sometimes I put my headphones in and I don’t have anything playing. It’s the socially acceptable way to tune people out. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

kylegalbraith Oct 3 @ 9:20 PM EDT

Standing desks for the win. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ScooterPhoenix, @BarretBlake, @ThePracticalDev

tinfoilboyv2 Oct 3 @ 9:21 PM EDT

Boards of Canada is pretty nice. I usually try and program at night, I get more done with less distraction at night #devdiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

lav_pathak Oct 3 @ 9:21 PM EDT

Todo list on slack, custom playlist in the background and a terminal window. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

yo_casarrubias Oct 3 @ 9:21 PM EDT

I use asana and I assign time to each task (with a beer in my hand) #devdiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

ChiSenires Oct 3 @ 9:22 PM EDT

I wanted to ask, if for example you have lots of things to work on, to the point that it's overwhelming... How do you get yourself to focus on at least one thing? #DevDiscuss

karanganesan Oct 3 @ 9:23 PM EDT

To be focused just put on your headset play electronic music thing works just like that ! 😎 @ThePracticalDev #devdiscuss

ChiSenires Oct 3 @ 9:23 PM EDT

I sometimes struggle with this and so far what I've been doing is just to distract myself—for at least an hour. I'm just wondering what other people do if ever :) and if yours is... I guess, faster? 😅 #DevDiscuss

goldirises Oct 3 @ 9:23 PM EDT

Yes! Its necessary to feel that accomplishment. If I don't get to em all i stick it to my desk for tomorrow #devdiscuss

In reply to @ScooterPhoenix, @ThePracticalDev

ChiSenires Oct 3 @ 9:23 PM EDT

280 characters really helps in articulating thoughts during #DevDiscuss mehehe

karanganesan Oct 3 @ 9:23 PM EDT

To be focused just put on your headset play electronic music Thing works just like that ! 😎 @ThePracticalDev #devdiscuss

Greg_Sideyr Oct 3 @ 9:24 PM EDT

#devdiscuss I blast EDM. I have a tweaked Lords of Acid station on Pandora that I use for that

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

michaelsoolee Oct 3 @ 9:24 PM EDT

Occasionally go somewhere without laptop charger. Makes me focus cause I need to get stuff done & prioritize like crazy #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

alephnaught2tog Oct 3 @ 9:24 PM EDT

With the caveat that sometimes you really just need a breather. Try a couple, if nothing sticks, take a break #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ChiSenires

lpasqualis Oct 3 @ 9:24 PM EDT

To get into a focused state I do whatever I can to eliminate anxiety, worry, anger, apathy, boredom, and relaxation. #DevDiscuss

kylegalbraith Oct 3 @ 9:25 PM EDT

I start with low hanging fruit first. Get some quick wins before getting sucked into the difficult stuff. Maybe I should flip? #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ChiSenires

aandr314 Oct 3 @ 9:25 PM EDT

Thing that we try (but often fail) is "paired sciencing": get locked together in office and work on boring stuff #DevDiscuss #phdchat

DaniMGuardiola Oct 3 @ 9:25 PM EDT

I follow the pomodoro technique by using my app, TimeDoser... to focus on coding v3 of my app, TimeDoser lol pd: testers? MD #DevDiscuss

living_syn Oct 3 @ 9:26 PM EDT

Writing down tasks and breaking them into small chunks is essential for me. #devdiscuss

Keinesvonuns Oct 3 @ 9:26 PM EDT

If the task is urgent: stress alone does it for me... otherwise, music I like (with no ads) or silence, and dual screens #DevDiscuss

DevGregory Oct 3 @ 9:27 PM EDT

I find having lots of things to do (in a short period of time) helps me focus because I know it all needs to get done. #devdiscuss

In reply to @ChiSenires

cjbush Oct 3 @ 9:28 PM EDT

A couple of Red Bull's, headphones, and potentially a caffeine pill. #PoorMansAdderall #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

gumnos Oct 3 @ 9:28 PM EDT

For other SAHM/SAHDs who work from home, what tricks help you with the need to split focus between work & kids? #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

mohanarpit Oct 3 @ 9:28 PM EDT

Good breakfast, cup of Joe and writing the day's goals in a notebk. Inherent pleasure in physically striking items on the list. #devdiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

How do you GET focused? When you first sit down to code or get to work, what's your routine to get in the right mindset? #devdiscuss

anniesqueedle Oct 3 @ 9:29 PM EDT

Headphones on, Slack closed, and upbeat instrumental music! Also keeping a checklist with atomic goals I can check off as I go. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

jcrvlh Oct 3 @ 9:30 PM EDT

I first prioritize the tasks (on @trello) and then open @Spotify (or @pocketcasts ) and @toggl to take the time track. #devdiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev, @trello, @Spotify, @pocketcasts, @toggl

shannon_crabill Oct 3 @ 9:30 PM EDT

Take a breather. Find what will be the biggest weight off your shoulders and focus on that. Break it into small parts #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ChiSenires

DaniMGuardiola Oct 3 @ 9:30 PM EDT

Talk about dogfooding... Btw, I find Pomodoro to be a bit complicated without a single assigned task. Multitasking = not good #DevDiscuss

DaniMGuardiola Oct 3 @ 9:25 PM EDT

I follow the pomodoro technique by using my app, TimeDoser... to focus on coding v3 of my app, TimeDoser lol pd: testers? MD #DevDiscuss

porto2112 Oct 3 @ 9:30 PM EDT

I try to set priorities and deal with things once a time. Doing too many things is sometimes as effective as doing nothing. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ChiSenires

Wintermute21 Oct 3 @ 9:31 PM EDT

Also I sit in Zazen for half an hour before work, also with a meditation timer. #DevDiscuss

Wintermute21 Oct 3 @ 9:11 PM EDT
jazz music, noise cancelling headphones, pomodoro tomato #DevDiscuss
- ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT
  
  How do you GET focused? When you first sit down to code or get to work, what's your routine to get in the right mindset? #devdiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:31 PM EDT

How do you keep the fire burning when you're focused? What do you do to avoid getting off track? #DevDiscuss

TheHanna Oct 3 @ 9:32 PM EDT

I open my tools in a very particular, ritualistic order. Dev/coding on screen 1, comms on screen 2, browsers on screen 3 #devdiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

amdev83 Oct 3 @ 9:32 PM EDT

I wish I had your discipline! #DevDiscuss

Wintermute21 Oct 3 @ 9:31 PM EDT
Also I sit in Zazen for half an hour before work, also with a meditation timer. #DevDiscuss
- Wintermute21 Oct 3 @ 9:11 PM EDT
  
  jazz music, noise cancelling headphones, pomodoro tomato #DevDiscuss
  
  ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT
  
  How do you GET focused? When you first sit down to code or get to work, what's your routine to get in the right mindset? #devdiscuss

jcrvlh Oct 3 @ 9:33 PM EDT

Same here. Sometimes I alternate dubstep with soundtracks. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @amdev83, @ThePracticalDev

ChiSenires Oct 3 @ 9:33 PM EDT

I tell myself not to care about the things happening around me. That I should only care about what I am currently doing. (easier said than done though lol) (also that's a big thing for me because I get distracted quite easily 😅) #DevDiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:31 PM EDT

How do you keep the fire burning when you're focused? What do you do to avoid getting off track? #DevDiscuss

amdev83 Oct 3 @ 9:33 PM EDT

Headphones and other “leave me alone” cues are key! Closing social media and email helps too. #DevDiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:31 PM EDT

How do you keep the fire burning when you're focused? What do you do to avoid getting off track? #DevDiscuss

michaelsoolee Oct 3 @ 9:34 PM EDT

Keep notes. And just flow w/the distractions. Often fighting them throw me off more than the distractions themselves #devdiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

amdev83 Oct 3 @ 9:34 PM EDT

I didn’t want to admit that I sometimes break out the Lion King soundtrack. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @jcrvlh, @ThePracticalDev

mrskellyvaughn Oct 3 @ 9:34 PM EDT

Make a to-do list. A reasonable one - a list that can actually be accomplished, knowing there will be at least a few interruptions. #devdiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

How do you GET focused? When you first sit down to code or get to work, what's your routine to get in the right mindset? #devdiscuss

lpasqualis Oct 3 @ 9:35 PM EDT

To not get distracted by fires I consider it and decide that I can let it burn. I choose to consider that decision is final. #DevDiscuss

ScooterPhoenix Oct 3 @ 9:35 PM EDT

Starting 1st thing in the morning,when my mind is sharpest. I tend to stay on track longer. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

michaelsoolee Oct 3 @ 9:35 PM EDT

Being a work-from-home dad when kiddos burst through the door demanding a hug, I give in 🤗 makes them happy & makes me happy too #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

mrskellyvaughn Oct 3 @ 9:35 PM EDT

Shut down email, and when I'm really feeling feisty, shut down Slack. #devdiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:31 PM EDT

How do you keep the fire burning when you're focused? What do you do to avoid getting off track? #DevDiscuss

shannon_crabill Oct 3 @ 9:35 PM EDT

Related to staying focused how do you stay focused when the afternoon slump hits? #devdiscuss

amdev83 Oct 3 @ 9:36 PM EDT

So true! Those first few hours are wonderful if used correctly! #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ScooterPhoenix, @ThePracticalDev

courtneyxann Oct 3 @ 9:36 PM EDT

Write a todo list, put on calming music, figure out how to block out unnecessary noise/notifications, then get to work. #devdiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

How do you GET focused? When you first sit down to code or get to work, what's your routine to get in the right mindset? #devdiscuss

amdev83 Oct 3 @ 9:36 PM EDT

Red Bull. Hands down. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @shannon_crabill

shannon_crabill Oct 3 @ 9:36 PM EDT

I change up my location if I can. Working away from my desk can help. Also, shutting down email/chat for a bit to stay on task #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

mvbrenes Oct 3 @ 9:36 PM EDT

Avoid unnecessary interruptions and pointless meetings, by working from home. #devdiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

mrskellyvaughn Oct 3 @ 9:37 PM EDT

#devdiscuss

In reply to @shannon_crabill

twobree Oct 3 @ 9:38 PM EDT

I tried listening to music while working/coding on Friday. I totally lost focus. @noisli was very helpful. Thunderstorm + wind #DevDiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:06 PM EDT

How do you GET focused? When you first sit down to code or get to work, what's your routine to get in the right mindset? #devdiscuss

bendhalpern Oct 3 @ 9:38 PM EDT

This post shows off a nice little DIY distraction-elimination tool https://t.co/tCRFOaYBLU Some apps do this but simple is best #DevDiscuss

ChiSenires Oct 3 @ 9:38 PM EDT

Just curious on #DevDiscuss : when are you more likely to get focused easily? 🌄🌇🌃 You can elaborate more by replying I guess 😆

lindakatcodes Oct 3 @ 9:38 PM EDT

Decide what I'm going to work on. Get some instrumental music going (can't have words, it distracts me - but silence is also distracting). Take a deep breath. And just start. It usually takes a few minutes to really get focused, but it'll happen. #devdiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

kylegalbraith Oct 3 @ 9:39 PM EDT

Short coffee breaks every 45-60 minutes. Then refocus and tune everything else back out. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

IgnoreIntuition Oct 3 @ 9:39 PM EDT

If I enjoy what I’m doing it’s damn near impossible to lose focus (short of someone clocking me in the back of my head). #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

twobree Oct 3 @ 9:40 PM EDT

Usually pretty focused, as long as I don't hear distracting noise or feel hungry. I try to stay on schedule for meals #devdiscuss

In reply to @noisli

kylegalbraith Oct 3 @ 9:40 PM EDT

Me every morning. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @mrskellyvaughn, @shannon_crabill

twobree Oct 3 @ 9:40 PM EDT

Usually pretty focused, as long as I don't hear distracting noise or feel hungry. I try to stay on schedule for meals #devdiscuss

shannon_crabill Oct 3 @ 9:40 PM EDT

If there was a "middle of the night" option, I would have picked that, but I feel the most focused at work in the morning #DevDiscuss

ChiSenires Oct 3 @ 9:38 PM EDT

Just curious on #DevDiscuss : when are you more likely to get focused easily? 🌄🌇🌃 You can elaborate more by replying I guess 😆

JKirstaetter Oct 3 @ 9:40 PM EDT

Considered to try a standing desk? #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ScooterPhoenix, @kylegalbraith, @BarretBlake, @ThePracticalDev

shannon_crabill Oct 3 @ 9:41 PM EDT

More power to you if you can handle it! I'm not a Red Bull fan. I don't drink coffee either #DevDiscuss

In reply to @amdev83

kylegalbraith Oct 3 @ 9:41 PM EDT

Mornings are my go to. I can do evenings to after about 9 PM but then I am up waaaay to late. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ChiSenires

gumnos Oct 3 @ 9:42 PM EDT

Check email. Check FB. Check Twitter. Check Reddit. Huh, any new email since last I checked? (lather, rinse, repeat) Sigh. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ChiSenires

ChiSenires Oct 3 @ 9:42 PM EDT

I forgot to add 😅 I tried to just capture the three sections in a day hahaha I also get these quick "focus spikes" late in the evening. But it's annoying for me since I also like waking up early 🙃 #DevDiscuss

In reply to @shannon_crabill

kylegalbraith Oct 3 @ 9:42 PM EDT

How do you survive?!??!? #DevDiscuss

In reply to @shannon_crabill, @amdev83

mohanarpit Oct 3 @ 9:42 PM EDT

A standing desk has also helped train my brain that this is work time and not social media time. #devdiscuss

shannon_crabill Oct 3 @ 9:43 PM EDT

Good point. Most of my work is production based (list of tasks that we self assign). Sometimes the work just has to get done #DevDiscuss

In reply to @living_syn

amdev83 Oct 3 @ 9:43 PM EDT

I know this pattern all too well. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @gumnos, @ChiSenires

DevGregory Oct 3 @ 9:43 PM EDT

Any time before 6pm, before 6pm people are working and after they are with family. #devdiscuss

In reply to @ChiSenires

shannon_crabill Oct 3 @ 9:43 PM EDT

I know! Sometimes I get insomnia and its like 4am and I'm like wtf is with this laser focus right now #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ChiSenires

isaacandsuch Oct 3 @ 9:44 PM EDT

Move the Slack icon from your main system tray to the popout so you don't see the 🔴 badge. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

courtneyxann Oct 3 @ 9:44 PM EDT

Short brain breaks, maybe go get some water, then back to work. Sometimes I hide if people keep interrupting my flow. #devdiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:31 PM EDT

How do you keep the fire burning when you're focused? What do you do to avoid getting off track? #DevDiscuss

shannon_crabill Oct 3 @ 9:44 PM EDT

Idk. I think I may be a ghost 👻 #DevDiscuss

In reply to @kylegalbraith, @amdev83

ChiSenires Oct 3 @ 9:44 PM EDT

Huhu I also get stuck in that loop! 😫 But when I start seeing the same things over and over again... that helps me get off hahaha #DevDiscuss

In reply to @gumnos

ScooterPhoenix Oct 3 @ 9:44 PM EDT

This was the post I read! #DevDiscuss

In reply to @bendhalpern

gumnos Oct 3 @ 9:45 PM EDT

Huh, it's lunch time. Guess I'll try to be productive after lunch. Hey, back from lunch. Any new email/FB/Twitter/Reddit? #DevDiscuss

In reply to @amdev83, @ChiSenires

twobree Oct 3 @ 9:45 PM EDT

Another useful tool is @forestapp_cc, which gamifies distraction - spend more time away from distracting sites, and grow more 🌲🌳 #devdiscuss

In reply to @forestapp_cc

amdev83 Oct 3 @ 9:45 PM EDT

You have to train coworkers right. They have no clue how expensive a distraction is. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @BenGitsCode, @ThePracticalDev

shannon_crabill Oct 3 @ 9:45 PM EDT

I agree! I do try to talk a walk with a coworker if I can. Breaks up the day, I'm moving around a bit and I get to catch up #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ChiSenires

kylegalbraith Oct 3 @ 9:45 PM EDT

Saving this to use tomorrow! Slack is to much at times. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @isaacandsuch, @ThePracticalDev

gumnos Oct 3 @ 9:45 PM EDT

"Dear internet: you're failing to keep me properly distracted from the work I'm actually supposed to be doing. Thanks, I guess?" #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ChiSenires

amdev83 Oct 3 @ 9:46 PM EDT

I’ll do better tomorrow. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @gumnos, @ChiSenires

ChiSenires Oct 3 @ 9:46 PM EDT

Give them treats if they do it right— //shot I'm just kidding 🤣 #DevDiscuss

In reply to @amdev83, @BenGitsCode, @ThePracticalDev

isaacandsuch Oct 3 @ 9:46 PM EDT

I treat all computer communication as asynchronous. If it's on fire RIGHT NOW, someone can call me. Otherwise, I'll get to later #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

kylegalbraith Oct 3 @ 9:46 PM EDT

Has anyone tried the email autoresponder trick? During your focus hours it lets the sender know if it is urgent you must get me #DevDiscuss

bendhalpern Oct 3 @ 9:47 PM EDT

Learning when and how your team members focus is key. When should you never interrupt them, when is it okay. #DevDiscuss

DevGregory Oct 3 @ 9:47 PM EDT

@ThePracticalDev Now I can't get focused because #devdiscuss is on. Time for me to get focused and work on @wesbos #javascript30

mohanarpit Oct 3 @ 9:47 PM EDT

I try not to sit during that time. Hard to feel drowsy when you're literally on your toes. Standing desks for the win! :D #devdiscuss

In reply to @shannon_crabill

gumnos Oct 3 @ 9:47 PM EDT

Add "Phew, finally focused and able to work on the task. [kid wanders in and wants to read a book. Can't say no to THAT]" #DevDiscuss

In reply to @amdev83, @ChiSenires

PokhrelChintan Oct 3 @ 9:48 PM EDT

Headphones and I don't take breaks. When something is not getting sorted, I take a walk but avoid people. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

the_hme Oct 3 @ 9:48 PM EDT

Headphones, music, ignore @SlackHQ, commits. At good pause points, take mental breaks, check @SlackHQ, news, repeat to task #devdiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev, @SlackHQ, @SlackHQ

gumnos Oct 3 @ 9:48 PM EDT

Is there a #DevDiscuss trophy? I think @mrskellyvaughn wins it tonight.

In reply to @mrskellyvaughn, @shannon_crabill, @mrskellyvaughn

ChiSenires Oct 3 @ 9:49 PM EDT

Same here. I like it when I feel like I can do more wore before the day ends, but I regret it the following morning when I'm groggy as hell 😢 #DevDiscuss

In reply to @kylegalbraith

Wintermute21 Oct 3 @ 9:49 PM EDT

No Social media, texting, etc. #DevDiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:31 PM EDT

How do you keep the fire burning when you're focused? What do you do to avoid getting off track? #DevDiscuss

PokhrelChintan Oct 3 @ 9:49 PM EDT

Also, setting priorities early in the morning and avoiding other tasks helps. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

EntirelyAmelia Oct 3 @ 9:49 PM EDT

I’m best in the late morning and mid-afternoon. Just the way my brain’s rhythm has always worked. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ChiSenires, @ThePracticalDev

shannon_crabill Oct 3 @ 9:50 PM EDT

I do like having a standing desk! I still find myself slumping or scrolling through IG while standing #DevDiscuss

In reply to @mohanarpit

bendhalpern Oct 3 @ 9:51 PM EDT

Knowing the task at hand is key. Am in a refactoring mindset, design mindset, debugging mindset? Etc. #DevDiscuss

courtneyxann Oct 3 @ 9:53 PM EDT

When I had a standing desk, I used this web app timer, similar to pomodoro, but standing and sitting. Always helped refocus me. #devdiscuss

In reply to @shannon_crabill, @mohanarpit

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:56 PM EDT

In the last few minutes of #DevDiscuss, anybody have any news to share, like a project or a personal win, or any other announcement?

courtneyxann Oct 3 @ 9:56 PM EDT

That's the main reason I got rid of my smartwatch. I had turned off notifications bc it was disrupting flow. Kinda pointless. #devdiscuss

In reply to @Wintermute21

mohanarpit Oct 3 @ 9:57 PM EDT

Lately, I've found myself more productive without music. Office bkground noise induces flow. Anyone else on the no-music train? #devdiscuss

Wintermute21 Oct 3 @ 9:57 PM EDT

breaking flow can be so hard to re-establish. #DevDiscuss

In reply to @courtneyxann

kimberlypilbeam Oct 3 @ 9:58 PM EDT

Daily stand ups help me set goals to achieve throughout the day. I’m much more productive with having a goal in mind. #DevDiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:01 PM EDT

Time for #DevDiscuss! Tonight's topic is STAYING FOCUSED 👀

Wintermute21 Oct 3 @ 9:58 PM EDT

I am definitely still seeking MS stack based employment in the Baltimore/DC area. :) #DevDiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:56 PM EDT

In the last few minutes of #DevDiscuss, anybody have any news to share, like a project or a personal win, or any other announcement?

ChiSenires Oct 3 @ 9:59 PM EDT

I've realized that in my first 3+ months at work, I've started AND finished a lot of projects! For someone whose bad habit is to start a project and then leave it hanging (because laziness or other things), it made me feel happy 😄 #DevDiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:56 PM EDT

In the last few minutes of #DevDiscuss, anybody have any news to share, like a project or a personal win, or any other announcement?

mohanarpit Oct 3 @ 9:59 PM EDT

Stoked to have completed #Hacktoberfest within the first week! #devdiscuss

ThePracticalDev Oct 3 @ 9:56 PM EDT

In the last few minutes of #DevDiscuss, anybody have any news to share, like a project or a personal win, or any other announcement?

courtneyxann Oct 3 @ 9:59 PM EDT

So true! And it's amazing how many people don't understand that! I have multiple roles and struggle with context switching a lot.#devdiscuss

In reply to @Wintermute21

kylegalbraith Oct 3 @ 9:59 PM EDT

A lot of progress on my practical book to learning AWS. Check that out if you are interested in updates https://t.co/10z3dHi2Hp #DevDiscuss

ReaverCelty Oct 3 @ 9:59 PM EDT

Red Bull + Music + Status = 'Very busy'. I usually have interruptions but the music helps me re-engage must faster #DevDiscuss

In reply to @ThePracticalDev

shannon_crabill Oct 3 @ 9:59 PM EDT

I forgot! I wrote a post recapping last weeks #DevDiscuss chat about imposter syndrome https://t.co/3Bj3TVeZHF

In reply to @ThePracticalDev