Chapter 316 - Implementation[7] (1/2)
In Everything is F.u.c.k.i.e.d: A Book About Hope, I redefine freedom as self-limitation. Freedom in the 21st century isn't about having more, it's about choosing your commitments to less.
(To see an excerpt related to this idea, read this: #FakeFreedom)
To help us limit ourselves, we need to set boundaries around ourselves. Our minds are too flawed and selfish to be allowed to pursue what they want. Instead, like training a dog, we must train our attention with the help of various tools to make sure we're focusing on the right things.
I'll talk about three types of tools in this section: website blockers, app blockers, and power outlet timers.
Key to implementing the attention diet is downloading and installing site blockers on your devices. There are dozens of apps, but here I'll review a few of the best ones that I've used.
Cold Turkey (MacOS/Windows) – My favorite app. Probably the most robust with the most features. You can block websites, specific pages, applications, and even specific Google searches.
I love it because it has a scheduler. So you can modify what gets blocked on which days. Let's say you want Friday afternoon to be your ”email” afternoon, you can program that in. Or you can open up everything on Sundays. It's highly customizable. It also keeps stats!
Also, unlike some blocking software, it's a one-time payment. So while the price may appear high, it's not that bad (and it's in Canadian dollars… which is like, not even real money).
Focus (MacOS) – More user friendly than Cold Turkey but without as many features. Focus saved my ass when I was writing my latest book. When I was on deadline, I got so desperate that I downloaded it and basically blocked everything in my life six days a week for about a month.
A screenshot of part of my blacklist. I have about 50 websites and apps blocked on my work computer. It's arguably the only thing that let me finish my book on time.
It blocks websites and apps, and you can customize what you block by day or even hours. It's not quite as intuitive or simple as Cold Turkey, but it's still great. My only complaint is that when you update the app, it shuts down, thus allowing you to f.u.c.k around again. I know that sounds minor, but each time I updated the app, I'd go on a 3-4 day binge of unproductivity before I finally forced myself to turn it back on.
Freedom (MacOS/Windows) – Beautifully designed and easy to use. Also works on your mobile devices.
This is probably the most popular app in this category. I haven't used it in a year or so and the reason I stopped is that it's too easy to get around. Hate to say it, but I can't be trusted with weak ass apps that let you close them or turn them off in a bunch of sneaky ways, I need an app that leaves me handcuffed with my work.
Self Control (MacOS) – Free and probably the most hardcore app on the list. You load up a list of sites, turn it on, and then you're stuck. Nothing you do can turn it off until the time runs out. You can restart your computer, uninstall the app, do anything, and it won't unblock you. It's evil…in the best way possible.