[cagrimmett]

My method to stop compulsively checking messages yet still be responsive to my clients' support emails was to institute the Pomodoro Method (25 minutes on a task, 5 minutes off, repeat for the whole work day). I close off all communication (Slack, email, Skype, etc) for the 25 on-task minutes and only check them during the 5 minute breaks. If something urgent comes up, I dedicate my next 25-minute task period to dealing with that item.

This has broken me of my involuntary email/Slack/IM checking and instead keeps me focused on the task at hand.

[TheOneTrueKyle]

But shouldn't you be using that 5 minutes for relaxing instead of diving back into stress.

Maybe an extended pomodoro session with an extra 3-5 minutes for team communication?

[cagrimmett]

I've been mostly fine with my method because every 4 Pomodoro I take a long 30 minute break. Also, not every 5 minute sessions results in messages I need to read and respond to, so those are essentially breaks.

[nkozyra]

Getting stuff done is remarkably soothing.

I know that sounds kind of sad, but escaping the distractions and actually doing something is such a difficult task with the constant barrage of communication that I truly value it. It gives respite.

[dood]

"A change is as good as a rest"

[bogomipz]

>"My method to stop compulsively checking messages yet still be responsive to my clients' support emails was to institute the Pomodoro Method (25 minutes on a task, 5 minutes off, repeat for the whole work day)."

This actually sounds very compulsive to me. I know everyone is different but for me to have an unwavering 30 minute cycle day in day out would drive me crazy.