8 tiny tech tweaks that help me focus better during long WFH days

Working from home is one of the modern world’s biggest advantages. That being said, a remote workday can also be more challenging at times.

I get easily distracted when I’m in an environment where I relax every night, so it’s sometimes harder to focus. However, these tech updates to my routine have transformed what I’m able to do during work hours in the comfort of my home, and they could help your attention span, too. 

1. Use to-do list widgets

When things are out of sight, it can be easy to forget that they exist. While that might not matter for lotions or nail polish bottles, the accidental habit isn’t good for work life. Researchers found that disengagement cost the global economy $438 billion in 2024, so we might even change the world by honing our focus.

To-do widgets have helped. They keep your priority tasks in sight by lingering on your desktop rather than inside a browser tab. You can also customise them to match your favourite colours and themes, depending on which program you prefer.

2. Get Bluetooth electrical outlets

Using a new kind of electrical outlet might not seem like a focus-boosting activity, but it’s been transformative for me. The outlets sync to my phone and operate on a schedule. I don’t have to pause things to turn my lamps off or start my humidifier because they operate independently. 

When there’s less for me to worry about, I’m able to concentrate on work better.

3. Wear blue light glasses

Working on a computer all day has more of an effect on our eyes and focus than we might like to admit.

Wearing blue light glasses can make your eyes more comfortable while looking at screens for extended periods. If your eyes aren’t straining, you’ll have more energy to concentrate on what you need to do.

4. Install a cloud-based note app

Organising my to-do list is another distraction. Sometimes I spend way too much time sorting tasks rather than finishing them.

It’s hard to juggle things all day, but cloud-based note apps simplify that responsibility. If I get an idea for a project while I’m making breakfast or switching laundry to the dryer, I can update my to-do list on my computer from my phone.

If you also need help organising your thoughts, you may focus better with consistently recorded tasks saved to the cloud.

5. Save themed timer videos

Research shows that people work most effectively in short bursts, but it’s easy to lose track of time if you’re working on something. I’ve tried setting timers on my phone, but I get distracted by social media notifications when they appear next to the timer. YouTube changed that for me.

If you experience similar challenges, try bookmarking timer videos with themes that match the seasons and your moods. They count down in a browser tab, so you don’t get tempted by social media apps on your phone. When the timer beeps, hit replay after taking a short break to reset your energy.

6. Play focus music

Anxiety is another factor that makes it hard to focus during work. When dealing with a challenging project, rising anxiety can make me desperate to do anything else. Background music is an excellent resource when you find yourself in the same situation.

Soft jazz or lo-fi music may regulate your nerves so you feel in control of your concentration again. Try saving a few favourite playlists that are multiple hours long so they are always within reach whenever you may need extra support.

Need some focus music to add to your list? View SHE DEFINED’s playlist here.

7. Gamify responsibilities

Checking things off to-do lists isn’t always fun. Sometimes I need more motivation to hone my concentration, which is why I’m so glad I started gamifying my workload. Gamification means adding a reward for finishing tasks, even in small batches. Once I finish a small task, I pretend I’ve unlocked an achievement by rewarding myself, like a 10-minute dance party to my favourite songs.

Gamification apps also exist if you prefer a more video game-like approach to your workload. Explore apps to see if you focus better knowing that your accomplishments will help you level up a character, take care of a virtual pet or grow digital plants.

8. Invest in noise-cancelling headphones

The birds outside your living room window might not seem like a distraction, but sometimes the tiniest noises can pull our focus away from work. If there are too many sounds during a work-from-home day, I wear my noise-cancelling headphones.

Blocking out noises enhances your attentional control, giving you a greater ability to concentrate on what matters. They’re also available in multiple styles, so everyone can enjoy a quiet work environment, no matter what kind they prefer.

Improve your productivity

Make your work-from-home shifts your most productive of the week by indulging in tiny tech upgrades. Remote days are much easier with tech resources like widgets and timer videos. Exploring one resource at a time will help you understand which tool works best for your brain, too.