MmmMmm distraction Cookies n Custard~ |3
Some great advice in the realms of starting (& staying!) focused from Ransom Cat!
#resource #worktip
"To force focus, sometimes it's a matter of just getting over the initial hump -- y'know, actually diving into it until the flow state starts to take shape.
Removing distractions is obviously helpful too. Try stuff like:
- Make sure your work area is clean and ready to use
- Put your phone on silent
- Sign off messengers, or at least set them to "do not disturb" mode
- Put on a playlist of music that isn't distracting (one that you don't have to fiddle with much after starting)
- Have enough drinks and snacks ready that you don't need to go and get more
Then just start by doing the smallest and easiest task to get the ball rolling. For example, if you're starting an illustration project, break it down into really small steps:
- Create the directory where your files for this project will be kept
- Set up your canvas
- Gather your character references
- Start the rough sketch to find a cool composition
- Create a rough colour/lighting study
- Once you have the composition you like, gather or more references for the scene and poses
And so forth. A project can seem intimidating if you think of it as one colossal endeavor, but it can be divided into tiny tasks. Just pick the next one on the list and put a few minutes into it.
Once you actually get working, it can be a matter of discipline to stay focused. For me, I would browse Twitter out of habit rather than enjoyment. So I removed the app from my phone, and then I just have to catch myself if I find myself wanting to type the URL into my browser.
And lastly, if you're still reeeeeally having trouble focusing, taking a break is still valid. I find even a 20-minute nap can be enough to rejuvenate me. You might find it helpful to cycle between working and breaks, like this:
https://pomofocus.io/ "
#resource #worktip
"To force focus, sometimes it's a matter of just getting over the initial hump -- y'know, actually diving into it until the flow state starts to take shape.
Removing distractions is obviously helpful too. Try stuff like:
- Make sure your work area is clean and ready to use
- Put your phone on silent
- Sign off messengers, or at least set them to "do not disturb" mode
- Put on a playlist of music that isn't distracting (one that you don't have to fiddle with much after starting)
- Have enough drinks and snacks ready that you don't need to go and get more
Then just start by doing the smallest and easiest task to get the ball rolling. For example, if you're starting an illustration project, break it down into really small steps:
- Create the directory where your files for this project will be kept
- Set up your canvas
- Gather your character references
- Start the rough sketch to find a cool composition
- Create a rough colour/lighting study
- Once you have the composition you like, gather or more references for the scene and poses
And so forth. A project can seem intimidating if you think of it as one colossal endeavor, but it can be divided into tiny tasks. Just pick the next one on the list and put a few minutes into it.
Once you actually get working, it can be a matter of discipline to stay focused. For me, I would browse Twitter out of habit rather than enjoyment. So I removed the app from my phone, and then I just have to catch myself if I find myself wanting to type the URL into my browser.
And lastly, if you're still reeeeeally having trouble focusing, taking a break is still valid. I find even a 20-minute nap can be enough to rejuvenate me. You might find it helpful to cycle between working and breaks, like this:
https://pomofocus.io/ "
pomofocus.io
An online Pomodoro timer to boost your productivity.