Introduction
Many focus tools aim to block specific websites or applications. While this method can be effective in some cases, it tends to view distraction as an element that needs to be eliminated completely.
However, sometimes distraction may not arise due to the possibility of accessing certain websites or applications. Distraction can be a shift in attention that happens during work. If the user does not notice this transition, then it becomes easy for them to engage in activities that were not initially intended.
This article discusses a new way of addressing this problem. Rather than preventing distractions, it proposes that these distractions become apparent. In essence, the proposed system introduces a brief pause during which users can observe the transition of attention and decide whether to return to their task or continue.
To test this theory, I created a desktop application titled Intent.
Problem with Focus Tools
The blocking strategy is applied by many tools which prohibit access to some websites and applications. Even though it allows avoiding possible distractors, it does not resolve the source of distractions.
Users tend to adjust themselves to this strategy. They can choose another application, postpone their task, or even turn off the program if necessary. In such situations, the tool acts as a temporary solution rather than a permanent one.
There is another drawback associated with a static list of prohibited websites. The definition of a distraction can vary from one task to another.
An application might be helpful for one job but not for others. This means that static rules cannot meet the needs of each situation.
Finally, there is a tendency toward shifting control from users to tools. The tool limits freedom of choice, which is essential for understanding how people use their time.
Taking all these drawbacks into account, blocking alone is not enough to solve the problem. Another approach is to focus on the moment when attention changes and help users identify that point.
Awareness-Based Approach
An alternative approach focuses on awareness at the moment distraction occurs. Unlike blocking, awareness does not restrict access but instead detects contextual changes and initiates a brief reminder.
In other words, this strategy supports decision-making rather than enforcing rules. The responsibility remains with the user, who has chosen to switch attention.
The key idea is to remind the user in a non-invasive way that they might be getting distracted while working.
When a user switches to an application outside the defined scope:
- The system does not react immediately
- A short delay ensures the action was intentional
- If the user remains in that application, a reminder appears
How It Works
The process is simple and combines contextual detection with minimal interruption:
Define Scope
The user selects apps relevant to their current task. This becomes the "in-scope" set.Start Session
The application runs in the background and tracks the active app.Detect Context Switch
When a new app becomes active, the system checks if it is within the selected scope.-
Evaluate Distraction
If the app is outside the scope:- The system waits briefly
- This avoids interrupting quick or intentional switches
Trigger Reminder
If the user stays outside the scope, a notification appears asking if the switch was intentional.
Open Source
The project is open-source, and contributions are welcome in several areas:
- Improving monitoring accuracy
- Enhancing the user interface
- Refining workflows
Feedback is also encouraged, especially regarding usability and system behavior in real-world scenarios.
The codebase is designed with:
- Readability
- Extensibility
- Modular structure (core logic, UI, utilities)
The goal is to keep the system simple while allowing gradual improvements.
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