Several of my dissertation coaching clients use timers on their computers to help them get started with a writing session, to stay focused, and to stick with their work.
It also helps them to stop at a pre-determined time. In that way, they don’t stay at the writing too long and yet they stay long enough to get a good chunk of work done.
One client says that her Taskmaster—her time-tracking widget — helps her with time management and with keeping track of how much time she spends on a task.
Another client uses a free online timer called Instant Boss. The “Boss” alerts him at a thirty-minute mark—the amount of time for a writing session that my client has decided works best for him He’s noticed that if he stays at it longer, his productivity goes down.
Not only does the Boss tell him when to take a break, but it also helps him keep his breaks to five or ten minutes.
If he decides to take a short walk during his break, he sets the timer on his cell phone.
Using a timer protects you from sabotaging yourself. You decide before you start the writing session how long you will work and how long your break will be.
It’s a handy writing tool, giving you some freedom while it eliminates the need to keep track of time yourself. And a timer helps you stay focused, allowing for an efficient and productive writing session.
Have you been thinking about trying a timer? Why not give it a whirl?
If you use a timer, I’d love to hear how it is working for you.
Until next time,
Nancy
Nancy Whichard, Ph.D., PCC
Your International Dissertation Coach and Academic Career Coach
nancy@nancywhichard.com
www.nancywhichard.com
www.dissertationbootcamp.net
www.usingyourstrengths.com
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