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by drio 119 days ago
> But I realized I have to learn when to take a break and go outside or something.

This is a big problem for me. I can force myself to step away sometimes, but more often than not I end up chasing a bug or trying to finish "just one more thing". Then I fall into a vicious cycle where I'm tired but keep going anyway -- which only makes things worse. Does anyone else have that problem? Were you able to fix it?
2 comments
MisterTea 118 days ago
Do you have ADHD? Have you ever done any type of psychiatric evaluation with a professional?

I say this because I have ADHD And have had that "just one more thing..." hyperfocus until I'm practically pissing or shitting my pants.

A lot this mental health stuff is re-training yourself to break and avoid bad habits. Talk therapy is really a mental training session where your therapist gives you exercises and tips, then keeps track of your progress. So with that, you need to train yourself to break that habit. If you need someone to help motivate or remind you, ask a friend maybe.

One of the basic ways to start is setting a timer for 20-30 minutes. When that timer goes off - TAKE A BREAK! Doesn't have to be a long one, just get up and do something. Get a drink of water, go look out the window for a few minutes, use the toilet, whatever. Keep doing this. Eventually you will not need the timer and you will start to realize you are hyperfocused and need a break. I'm not perfect and still have hyperfocus stints but they aren't as long or frequent.

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drio 118 days ago
Thank you, MT.

> A lot this mental health stuff is re-training yourself to break and avoid bad habits.

:this:

> Do you have ADHD?

I haven't done any professional evaluation.

> setting a timer for 20-30 minutes

This is what I've been using, and it works most of the time, but I still get hyperfocus stints, as you say. I guess I have to keep at it.

Also, a longer break that includes a walk after a few 25-minute chunks is extremely impactful. When I come back from that, I am so much more effective.

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truthbe 119 days ago
> which only makes things worse

Could you explain what problem you feel you're facing exactly. From my perspective I'm envious that you have enough drive that the only issue is you can't stop working, I want that so bad. Obviously i'm missing a key bit of info

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