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August 30, 2024
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Body doubling: How shared focus helps you start tasks and stay on track

Body doubling is a powerful productivity method that creates focus and accountability by working alongside someone else. Learn how it works, its benefits, and practical steps to make tasks feel more manageable and engaging.

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Ever feel like starting a task is the hardest part?

Body doubling can help by turning solitary tasks into shared moments of focus and connection. This simple practice provides structure and accountability, making it easier to start and finish what you set out to do.

What is body doubling?

Body doubling is a productivity technique where you work alongside someone—either in person or virtually—to stay focused. Their presence creates a sense of accountability, making it easier to focus on and complete tasks. It’s a collaborative, low-pressure way to tackle your to-do list with support.

Why does body doubling work?

Body doubling works by tapping into social facilitation—the natural boost in focus and performance that comes from working in the presence of others. This shared sense of purpose reduces distractions and creates a steady flow of momentum, helping even daunting tasks feel achievable.

How do I know if body doubling is right for me?

If you’ve ever wondered whether body doubling could help you, ask yourself these questions:

Do you struggle to start or stay focused on tasks, even when they’re important to you?

Does having someone else around—virtually or in person—help you feel more motivated and accountable?

Do you find it easier to work or study when there’s a shared sense of purpose or connection?

Body doubling can be especially helpful if:

You work remotely and miss the structure and energy of an office environment. Having a virtual or in-person co-working partner can bring back a sense of accountability and rhythm to your day.

You’re a student trying to stay on top of assignments or study sessions. A study partner can turn solitary tasks into collaborative, focused efforts.

You have everyday tasks that feel overwhelming. From cleaning to organizing to tackling your inbox, these tasks often feel more achievable with a bit of shared focus and encouragement.

If any of this resonates with you, body doubling might be worth a try. It’s a flexible, adaptable practice that meets you where you are and helps you make progress—no matter the task.

Avance vraiment, sans t’épuiser

Tiimo t’aide à organiser tes journées, te concentrer et rester sur la bonne voie, même quand la motivation est basse.

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How to start with body doubling

Find the right partner

Look for someone who’s also working on their own goals—a friend, coworker, or even someone you connect with online. Shared focus creates mutual accountability and support.

Set clear goals

Define what you want to achieve during the session. Whether it’s completing a task, brainstorming, or simply staying on track for a set time, clear objectives help guide the session.

Create the right environment

Choose a workspace that minimizes distractions and supports focus. Use tools like noise-canceling headphones or virtual platforms designed for co-working to enhance your environment.

Use focus tools (like Tiimo)

Leverage apps, timers, or productivity planners to structure your session and maintain flow. For example, Tiimo’s our visual planning tools can help you map out your tasks, set reminders, and create a routine that feels achievable. These tools make it easier to stay organized, reduce mental load, and keep momentum going.

Bring focus and connection into your routine

Body doubling is more than just a productivity hack—it’s a way to foster connection, accountability, and progress in a world that often demands we do it all alone. Whether you’re tackling a work project, studying, or simply trying to cross things off your to-do list, having the right support and tools can make all the difference.

By experimenting with body doubling and finding what works best for you—whether it’s a trusted partner, a structured routine, or helpful focus tools like Tiimo—you can create a process that feels sustainable and empowering.

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection, it’s about making meaningful progress in a way that supports your needs and strengths. So, take what resonates, try it out, and discover how shared focus can transform how you approach your tasks.

Ready to give body doubling a try? Start small, find your rhythm, and see how body doubling can help you take that first step toward a more focused and fulfilling day.

À propos de l’auteur·ice

Beaux Miebach

Beaux dirige l’inclusion chez Tiimo. Personne queer et neurodivergente, iel crée des systèmes accessibles et équitables pour les besoins réels des utilisateur*ices.

En savoir plus
August 30, 2024
• Updated:

Body doubling: How shared focus helps you start tasks and stay on track

Body doubling is a powerful productivity method that creates focus and accountability by working alongside someone else. Learn how it works, its benefits, and practical steps to make tasks feel more manageable and engaging.

No items found.

Ever feel like starting a task is the hardest part?

Body doubling can help by turning solitary tasks into shared moments of focus and connection. This simple practice provides structure and accountability, making it easier to start and finish what you set out to do.

What is body doubling?

Body doubling is a productivity technique where you work alongside someone—either in person or virtually—to stay focused. Their presence creates a sense of accountability, making it easier to focus on and complete tasks. It’s a collaborative, low-pressure way to tackle your to-do list with support.

Why does body doubling work?

Body doubling works by tapping into social facilitation—the natural boost in focus and performance that comes from working in the presence of others. This shared sense of purpose reduces distractions and creates a steady flow of momentum, helping even daunting tasks feel achievable.

How do I know if body doubling is right for me?

If you’ve ever wondered whether body doubling could help you, ask yourself these questions:

Do you struggle to start or stay focused on tasks, even when they’re important to you?

Does having someone else around—virtually or in person—help you feel more motivated and accountable?

Do you find it easier to work or study when there’s a shared sense of purpose or connection?

Body doubling can be especially helpful if:

You work remotely and miss the structure and energy of an office environment. Having a virtual or in-person co-working partner can bring back a sense of accountability and rhythm to your day.

You’re a student trying to stay on top of assignments or study sessions. A study partner can turn solitary tasks into collaborative, focused efforts.

You have everyday tasks that feel overwhelming. From cleaning to organizing to tackling your inbox, these tasks often feel more achievable with a bit of shared focus and encouragement.

If any of this resonates with you, body doubling might be worth a try. It’s a flexible, adaptable practice that meets you where you are and helps you make progress—no matter the task.

Avance vraiment, sans t’épuiser

Tiimo t’aide à organiser tes journées, te concentrer et rester sur la bonne voie, même quand la motivation est basse.

Apple logo
Get Tiimo on App Store

How to start with body doubling

Find the right partner

Look for someone who’s also working on their own goals—a friend, coworker, or even someone you connect with online. Shared focus creates mutual accountability and support.

Set clear goals

Define what you want to achieve during the session. Whether it’s completing a task, brainstorming, or simply staying on track for a set time, clear objectives help guide the session.

Create the right environment

Choose a workspace that minimizes distractions and supports focus. Use tools like noise-canceling headphones or virtual platforms designed for co-working to enhance your environment.

Use focus tools (like Tiimo)

Leverage apps, timers, or productivity planners to structure your session and maintain flow. For example, Tiimo’s our visual planning tools can help you map out your tasks, set reminders, and create a routine that feels achievable. These tools make it easier to stay organized, reduce mental load, and keep momentum going.

Bring focus and connection into your routine

Body doubling is more than just a productivity hack—it’s a way to foster connection, accountability, and progress in a world that often demands we do it all alone. Whether you’re tackling a work project, studying, or simply trying to cross things off your to-do list, having the right support and tools can make all the difference.

By experimenting with body doubling and finding what works best for you—whether it’s a trusted partner, a structured routine, or helpful focus tools like Tiimo—you can create a process that feels sustainable and empowering.

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection, it’s about making meaningful progress in a way that supports your needs and strengths. So, take what resonates, try it out, and discover how shared focus can transform how you approach your tasks.

Ready to give body doubling a try? Start small, find your rhythm, and see how body doubling can help you take that first step toward a more focused and fulfilling day.

About the author

Beaux Miebach

Beaux dirige l’inclusion chez Tiimo. Personne queer et neurodivergente, iel crée des systèmes accessibles et équitables pour les besoins réels des utilisateur*ices.

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Body doubling: How shared focus helps you start tasks and stay on track
August 30, 2024

Body doubling: How shared focus helps you start tasks and stay on track

Body doubling is a powerful productivity method that creates focus and accountability by working alongside someone else. Learn how it works, its benefits, and practical steps to make tasks feel more manageable and engaging.

Tiimo coach of the month icon

Georgina Shute

Gina is an ADHD coach and founder of KindTwo, helping overwhelmed leaders reclaim time and build neuroinclusive systems that actually work.

No items found.

Ever feel like starting a task is the hardest part?

Body doubling can help by turning solitary tasks into shared moments of focus and connection. This simple practice provides structure and accountability, making it easier to start and finish what you set out to do.

What is body doubling?

Body doubling is a productivity technique where you work alongside someone—either in person or virtually—to stay focused. Their presence creates a sense of accountability, making it easier to focus on and complete tasks. It’s a collaborative, low-pressure way to tackle your to-do list with support.

Why does body doubling work?

Body doubling works by tapping into social facilitation—the natural boost in focus and performance that comes from working in the presence of others. This shared sense of purpose reduces distractions and creates a steady flow of momentum, helping even daunting tasks feel achievable.

How do I know if body doubling is right for me?

If you’ve ever wondered whether body doubling could help you, ask yourself these questions:

Do you struggle to start or stay focused on tasks, even when they’re important to you?

Does having someone else around—virtually or in person—help you feel more motivated and accountable?

Do you find it easier to work or study when there’s a shared sense of purpose or connection?

Body doubling can be especially helpful if:

You work remotely and miss the structure and energy of an office environment. Having a virtual or in-person co-working partner can bring back a sense of accountability and rhythm to your day.

You’re a student trying to stay on top of assignments or study sessions. A study partner can turn solitary tasks into collaborative, focused efforts.

You have everyday tasks that feel overwhelming. From cleaning to organizing to tackling your inbox, these tasks often feel more achievable with a bit of shared focus and encouragement.

If any of this resonates with you, body doubling might be worth a try. It’s a flexible, adaptable practice that meets you where you are and helps you make progress—no matter the task.

How to start with body doubling

Find the right partner

Look for someone who’s also working on their own goals—a friend, coworker, or even someone you connect with online. Shared focus creates mutual accountability and support.

Set clear goals

Define what you want to achieve during the session. Whether it’s completing a task, brainstorming, or simply staying on track for a set time, clear objectives help guide the session.

Create the right environment

Choose a workspace that minimizes distractions and supports focus. Use tools like noise-canceling headphones or virtual platforms designed for co-working to enhance your environment.

Use focus tools (like Tiimo)

Leverage apps, timers, or productivity planners to structure your session and maintain flow. For example, Tiimo’s our visual planning tools can help you map out your tasks, set reminders, and create a routine that feels achievable. These tools make it easier to stay organized, reduce mental load, and keep momentum going.

Bring focus and connection into your routine

Body doubling is more than just a productivity hack—it’s a way to foster connection, accountability, and progress in a world that often demands we do it all alone. Whether you’re tackling a work project, studying, or simply trying to cross things off your to-do list, having the right support and tools can make all the difference.

By experimenting with body doubling and finding what works best for you—whether it’s a trusted partner, a structured routine, or helpful focus tools like Tiimo—you can create a process that feels sustainable and empowering.

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection, it’s about making meaningful progress in a way that supports your needs and strengths. So, take what resonates, try it out, and discover how shared focus can transform how you approach your tasks.

Ready to give body doubling a try? Start small, find your rhythm, and see how body doubling can help you take that first step toward a more focused and fulfilling day.

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