Working From Home: How to Stay Focused

In this video, I'll share a process that will help you stop procrastinating, pick a task, and stay focused while working from home.
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[@Thomasfrank]

Want to be more organized? Take my FREE course on building your productivity system: collegeinfogeek.com/go/skillshare-course/ (this is an affiliate link, so using it also supports my channel 😀 )

[@TylerSarry]

Thank you!

[@yusufmax8266]

What should i do if i am mobile AR developer?)

[@christianjohansmeier7333]

Here I am (at 6:45) working from home today....... lol

[@jessicawaddell2746]

The beginning was kinda dramatic but that’s literally how it feels

[@DemetriPanici]

same ^^

[@Nico-ig1mr]

Same

[@kaye.]

exactly!!

[@bomanson]

Same

[@khakihat3317]

had me at "just do it"

[@nina80808]

A tip I came across a few years ago that has really helped me is to keep a notepad next to me as I work so I can write down the thoughts that pop up while I work but will be a distraction -- for example, if I remember I need to pay a bill, I write that down instead of stopping my work flow to pay that bill before I forget. Hopefully that'll help some of you guys too!

[@MrsThollo]

I recently learned this. The video/person compared it to some kind of book a character used in Harry Potter. I've never read the books so I don't know who. I do know it has been great for keeping me on task, though!

[@diax14]

Up you go! I do this too and is really helpful.

[@MsInvestigate]

as someone with the attention span of a small rodent, this helps me a ton.

[@plaisirdelanglais]

It's called mind sweep. See Getting Things Done by David Allen.

[@mperezgumperezgu3021]

I do this too! I label the sticky note next to me ; “PARKING LOT” So to mentally park those thoughts and get back to later. Forgot who I learn this from hmmm probably Matt D or something lol

[@samo2697]

"choose no more than three meaningful tasks that you intend to get done." TELL THAT TO MY TEACHERS

[@torquevonthorne948]

Are the tasks they give you so much meaningful? ;) For your professional/personal improvement at least?

[@ktyy777]

Torque von Thorne i wish we had that choice, but professors tend to overload on things due in a week that have grade consequences lol

[@SincerelyMaria]

I do the exact same! Works really well :)

[@rakvian]

@@torquevonthorne948 . No, they are not, all taks schools gives me are absolute bullshit.

[@caseylydon4151]

Torque von Thorne no, they’re so tedious and usually repetitive because teachers can’t find anything else to give us. it makes sense though because if we were actually at school there are so many other options like lectures and class discussion which isn’t easy at this time, so they just give us something to do that doesn’t necessarily help me learn. it’s so annoying

[@garydose129]

Lets Recap: 1:28 Set an Intention - just 3 or so key things to accomplish 3:10 Eliminate Distractions 9:22 Reduce the Resistance - break down daunting tasks into smaller tasks, only commit to working for a short time, etc.

[@pranayavnish8028]

thanks

[@tabbywarrior]

Tysm man

[@PamelaMortel]

I was looking for this. Thank you!!!

[@xinyiwang1525]

Thx

[@GradySmith]

My issue is that I work on my computer and the computer IS the distraction.

[@flightmotive]

Tell me about it lol 😂

[@reethelemon]

Well my issue is that I need my phone to do my homework but my phone IS the distraction. Life can be tough

[@imanepink]

Same tbh

[@azizouikene2351]

This vedio is actually a distraction...

[@juzam8988]

Yes!

[@LynsArt]

"I know this is dramatic -" No, you've described it PERFECTLY

[@UmbrellaExile]

"As always, I'm not your dad." :'(

[@DemetriPanici]

Sad

[@nhanlc]

I know I should not laugh at this but I did...

[@rodhash]

IKR!? Shocked too!

[@honeyno7758]

deadass quarantine is the best thing that could've happened to productivity youtubers

[@ghostghost4261]

so true

[@MJ-hh1tm]

I needed this - impeccably timed as usual! Only 25 days to go and my undergrad degree is completed!!! I can get through this 💪

[@ayellowpapercrown6750]

Congrats!!

[@rossdonald3189]

Well done

[@elevenaffirmations5821]

You got this!

[@njrom]

Being a bit ahead (I have 10) we both have got this!

[@ChristianGonzalez-ri1jx]

Aye let's go. We're almost done!

[@BeSmarterFaster]

Your 'B Roll' is really excellent. I don't know how you do it. You must have a great team around you. While your content is always solid, it's your ability to present your ideas with those extra video snippets that's the icing on your cake.

[@madhavdaga]

I wonder if Thomas watches his own videos sometimes for motivating and tips 😂

[@Riaanwest]

haha, great observation, i'm sure he does!!!

[@valentina7193]

As an ADHDer, the beginning is how my daily approach goes. Thank you man, much needed. Loving this series

[@legerdemain]

Me at beginning of video: "Yes, finally someone identifies my problem." TF: "I guess I'm being dramatic." ME: "Nooooooo!"

[@Oversampled]

The timer is a really good thing. 30 minute work sessions are just perfect for me, not really scary and also healthier than sitting for a long time and getting tired

[@fernandaresendiz8380]

Me: watches video of how to stay focused while working at home Also me: *realizes that this video is distracting me from work*

[@SincerelyMaria]

haha every time! :D

[@softwareimpersonal3488]

same

[@ajiamorr350]

Exactly, this is why I hesitate to watch productivity videos!

[@George_Perez]

Man the beginning felt like I was watching a move, and LOVED this one.. as far as I'm concerned there's never been a better time to double down and stay focused while most people just lope around and watch netflix all day, lets get it guys.. time to build our empires!! 💪🤑🔥

[@damondominique]

*Working from Home Rule #1* Throw away your phone.

[@vlogswithgavin2.08]

I tried not using my phone, I didn't get distracted by my phone, I got distracted by my own mind.

[@bhuvaneshwarij1326]

So true! I have lost motivation..keep watching videos

[@danieleliassalgadomiranda224]

You need it Bro hahaha, you can make it play music for concentration or turn on the "do not disturb" mode if you want to do all your tasks.

[@YumegakaMurakumo]

@@vlogswithgavin2.08 This needs more likes. Because the distraction is INTERNAL not external...A lot of us need to realize this

[@ibrahimkalmati9379]

But it is most difficult thing in world You can understand any equation if you are focused but problem is it separating your self from useless internet is near impossible task

[@rodeoleo9453]

Thomas Frank: *takes out a pack of gum from his pocket* Everyone in a 10 miles radius: Hey! We've known each other for so long!

[@CharlieName33]

I'm in the process of starting up a business that will likely have me working from home majority of the time and I've been stressing with how hard it is to actually do work in my own home. Thank you good sir!

[@mariesurdu]

I gotta say, after watching your channel for about a year now the quality and production of these videos has improved so much! I mean, angles and different locations as well as lighting etc. has upped the quality of your videos immensely. I’m no expert but wow! I love the work and progress :)

[@Thomasfrank]

1% Rule Log for this video: - Focused on learning how to add in a bit of skit comedy, inspired by UpIsNotJump (kzbin.info/door/FLwN7vRu8M057qJF8TsBaA). As with the addition of voice-over segments, the idea here is to mix things up occasionally throughout the video in order to keep the energy high. - Scripting and writing - this is one of most tightly scripted videos I've made (to accommodate the skits). - Sound design - experimented with automating the parameters of the reverb in the intro in order to make it change over time. What is the 1% Rule? Essentially, it's the idea that you should aim to get 1% better with each piece of work you do, instead of pressuring yourself to create "perfect" work. Over time, these 1% improvements add up as long as you're consistent. More info, along with my journal for all videos, here: thomasjfrank.com/my-1-rule-journal/ P.S. - I put up another video with a bonus tip on Instagram today. Check it out here: instagram.com/tomfrankly P.S. #2 - if you'd like a focus timer with some additional motivation built in, check out the huge Study With Me crossover I did with Matt D'Avella, Sara Dietschy, Ali Abdaal, and more: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hqbcZKmih8umn8k

[@stevenneaves8079]

Your sound design has improved leaps and bounds, I was taking note of it throughout this entire video, good job man!

You could do a video about "Home-Student", that would be amazing, a lot of people who whatch your videos are students 🤪🤪🤪

[@chloecm]

Video quality is off the charts lately! But, sadly, I'm allergic to Big Red gum :(

[@seandangercampbell]

Creditable work sir.

[@martasiani363]

Hi Thomas, I removed instagram for avoiding it, as it was a huge distraction for me😅😅 Btw thanks for all the other advices!

[@nickcormier]

Thomas, videos like this has helped me so much this past year - I really appreciate the hard work you put into this channel!

[@profilname123]

Thanks for the video Tom! I have been struggling with working from home and your fresh ideas and humor are very welcome. :)

[@georgeruellan]

I love how you've slowly upped the production value of your videos. I've always loved them but I'm even more captivated now!

[@KeshArt]

the front fringed Thomas reminds of the venom tobey maguire from spider man 3...... you gonna dance for us anytime soon tom?

[@Thomasfrank]

You’ll get your rent when you fix this damn door!

[@MightBeEden]

@@Thomasfrank respect+

[@tullyparker]

@@Thomasfrank Rofl

[@Duck_VadR]

Ive been watching your channel since you have started. Listened to almost every podcast as well. Thanks for the content. It has helped bring order in my very chaotic world many times.

[@dinonet6423]

You always have refreshing and unique ideas that actually help people when they apply them! Thank you

[@SincerelyMaria]

This has probably been the hardest part of working from home! There are soo many distractions! Appreciate this video!

[@clayshippy2652]

1:21 Yeah - like Chuck-E-Cheese - with the Grandkids out of school for Covid - 19 precautions - my work space is like Chuck-E-Cheese 7:31 I need you to do a program on "how to" work the notification selections on my phone. 8:33 I need something to block out when the kids decide to pick a fight with each other - usually seems to happen when I am on an important phone call - hey... maybe this is that novelty thing you were talking about earlier. 12:48 I do this with the kids study assignments - if they have a hundred arithmetic problems, I get them to focus on ten. Good stuff today - short, but very useful. In fact short worked better for me today, the kids haven't yet discovered I'm not in the room with them ! Thanks.

[@SincerelyMaria]

Thanks for this! Makes it easier to re-watch if needed :D

[@edu-mq5yy]

I've been watching your videos from the beginning of channel. Amazing progress in storytelling. Thanks Thomas.

[@VihanChelliah]

Really great stuff! Totally agree with the Distraction Blocker tip! Use a lot of these to avoid distractions when working on my stuff or creating my videos. The resistance to starting is so real too!

[@ssenjuti7770]

Thomas, I have a great problem focusing right now, lost almost all natural sleep, anxiety with whatever's going on in the world, long term and sometimes immediate fear of losing my job, things are really tough for me. In fact, I am writing this just after watching your video, in the tacit hope that you can help. I am tired, and need sleep, and have to work, but the panic is just too much to deal with. Not a good place to be, mate.

[@mahathikandimalla8915]

Thomas Frank’s Next video: How to be productive at Chuck E Cheese

[@SincerelyMaria]

haha if only!

[@anamjamil9211]

Not funny

[@James-br7qy]

@@anamjamil9211 53 people disagree

[@matematicarka]

THE ULTIMATE BOSS

[@tinkerbrownie]

Loved how you showed how YOU implement all that you have suggested, like a summary at the very end. Very helpful :D

[@chocopuff]

Your editing is realllyyy improving, love the quality!

[@CajunKoiAcademy]

😀 We can tell that your focus methods are working.. because how else are you digesting so many books lol. Thanks for condensing this info for us!

[@HermannssonMusic]

Loving how the cinematography is progressing lately! Keep it up! :-D

[@FreeboSelecta]

This was exactly what I needed this morning! Thank you as always Thomas Frank :D

[@brennabeloved8540]

🙌 this video kills!! Seriously, it's so actionable and thorough and a huge help right now!

[@bronwynpillay2113]

I literally thought 03:23 was an ad for a sec.

[@joeobama5208]

SAME 😭😭

[@tpeasetiger]

How to stay focused at home: Step one: start Thomas Frank’s ultimate study with me crossover.

[@Riaanwest]

this is excellent, love the way you think

[@Jovancir87]

Dude, your page is awesome - I loved it, I really loved it all, congratulations!

[@cemilalp5639]

Dude I love how you are not only a great youtuber but also a great video editor and composer!!!

[@sahilgangwani]

This was such a well made video! It was Refreshing to see your cat and gf in the video haha! I love the tips in the video! Super insightful! 💯💯💯💯👏👏👏

[@improvementhub2675]

Those personal touches!

[@dannytbm]

I feel like that bit at 3:20 was partly inspired by the opening of Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. :D

[@mydailyburger3924]

This is the video that I've been looking for! Brilliant!

[@rebecamunton8975]

I really needed this video!!!! Thank you Thomas!

[@karenrich9092]

When I need to sit down to work, I think I'll turn off my internet. I never thought of doing that. Even as a website designer, I can do the work, then turn on the connection and "Update Website X, Y and Z". That would cut out the distractions. It would also mean that watching your videos would be a reward!

[@zach7559]

Three intentions Eliminate distractions (turn off internet/phone off) Small intentions for each work session Set a timer (reasonable chunk) Work to instrumental music

[@surbhimotghare8908]

This was an excellent video with tangible steps and actions! Thank you for simplifying my life!! :)

[@leilaaslan7022]

you are just great at your work.beautiful editing,really helpful advices and funny jokes to make us not being stressed out about being productive.you are the proof of your advices really does work👌🏻

[@cheyenneliu1346]

I'm literally the opposite of everyone else. I find myself so much more productive at home

[@MrShivBoom]

Why are you watching this 😂

[@LejunglerenardThejunglefox]

Hey Mr. Frank, I just subscribed and I wanted to tell you why and what led me to do it. Right now my life has been constantly miserable and I have a serious case of student fatigue or burnout because I’ve been constantly failing in my classes to the point of almost on the verge of getting removed from college. Your videos have at least stopped me from thinking about constantly wanting to quit college, binge drink alcohol, and smoke vape products like a chain-smoker. I plan to use your advice in my life tomorrow to see if I can get my work done for my classes and salvage my classes.

[@tingting7856]

Did you get your work done?

[@norajamieson7257]

Your videos are so helpful and well made - it's almost crazy that we get access to them for free!

[@rajesaravanan521]

the amount of work you have put into this video is exceptional .

[@Roma-mt9mj]

9:50 I LAUGHED, why is my sense of humor so broken ahasahsgh

[@vain_za]

11:32 "Wedneday" - Thomas, April 2020

[@sammycross9119]

This was really needed bro!!! Thanks!

[@portaljulia]

Hey Thom!! Haven't watched you for a while!! I love your new background, new lighting and new haircut!!!

[@jonathanlong9176]

When Thomas Frank was in middle school, he was more productive than the teachers grading homework because he was the one grading homework.

[@barbarajemedy2657]

“This is really dramatic isn’t it” 😂 lol I loved it

[@viniciuscosta8848]

The Best KZbinr I have found this year ! A hello from Brazil !

[@FrankHuynh]

Great video! I stumbled on this after uploading to my channel a productivity video as well. All the best!

[@fireshine4105]

"and you wonder if you get anything done ever again" Me: omg this is exactly what I feel like! "this is a bit over dramatic isn't it?" Me: OH

[@F.Ray97]

Quarantine has turned this dude into Alisson Becker 😂

[@HowToEvery-Slap]

Amazing insights, the toolkit is awesome, thanks!

[@rtad05]

I used to think I was a lost cause when it came to getting myself organized and focused. Your videos have helped me so much!

[@thisismaeday]

The quarantine hair is setting in :')

[@nikyabodigital]

MarsAttacks1993 He is gonna cut himself and be semi bald again xp

[@Archetapp]

I'm being distracted right now by this video... thanks Thomas. 🙃

[@improvementhub2675]

This always happens to me!

[@laurennicole7098]

This is fantastic and a game changer! Thank you!!!

[@bayleewichlan6779]

Hey, this video really helped me. Thank you!

[@Brute4rce1111]

Me: working on editing more videos for my YT channel My brain: look! SQUIRREL, SQUIRREL!!

[@jigyanshushrivastava6153]

"We do not need to be focused. We need to observe new things. " Ellen Langer in The art of mindful learning.

[@Riaanwest]

this is so true "We need to observe new things" thank you for sharing

[@sinaglahi8726]

Love the content! I have to say I do agree to all your insights as I have been working from home for almost three years now and I must admit staying focused is something I struggle so much about. I know that I need to have a system and I've been trying to work on it. One thing I realized (speaking from my personal experience, hehe) is that I need a system that can adapt to the many changes in all the tasks that I do whether it be things I need to be doing at work or at home. It's still a work in progress but I really hope I can get something that works for me.

[@Fumblesftw23]

Just finished watching this as an assignment and i had to sub! very helpful information. I could learn a lot from this channel !!

[@mohamadoubah2725]

Starting chemistry always feels like I’m lifting a 50 ton rock 🤒

[@wykedxs3286]

The irony of me watching this instead of doing my work 🤔

[@ys3395]

This is a great video! Great tips and awesome editing!

[@harrycharania945]

This video really helped. Thanks Thomas👍

[@lazysheep3102]

6:23 **the Rock's TikTok** where is Matt.

[@Riaanwest]

great question

[@andrzejkowasz]

3:30 - The hitchhiker's guide to the quarantine ;)

[@TylerSarry]

Thanks for all your videos! Content is always on point and very valuable💯🙏

[@reyalexandro]

I've been struggling hard to concentrate. The days just feel the same. I've never worked from home for this long. This video has helped me big time

[@DemetriPanici]

The last time I was this early I hadn’t started my self-development journey.

[@Drewrejee]

Step 1: turn on airplane mode Step 2: sit cozily in yr work area Step3: LAUNCH THAT PHONE on a soft surface multiple feet away. Where you cannot see Yw :)

[@RsirS_]

Angelina Rejametova спасибо,так проще:)

[@Riaanwest]

LOVE the steps you outlined :)

[@Ben-dk9sk]

I’ve been sick for 2 days and have piled up work since I got to work from home. I’m usually a straight A student but I plan to use this for even college if I have to work from a dorm or such.

[@Tienkou111]

I believe this is your best video so far. Great work 👍

[@travisbroneske3711]

5:50 Tom mispronounces "Best Distraction in the whole house"

[@alem.14]

Me: *takes online classes in Teams* Thomas: close it Me: ok *leaves the classes*

[@casterkwak9360]

What a brilliant plug into brilliant!

[@Abeer11]

superb quality content. Thank you Thomas

[@mohammadtila7746]

frank :- " as always, i'm not your dad." his future child watching this video :- " i'm adopted ?"

[@Koko-sx5ri]

Me: watching this video while I’m supposed to be in virtual class 😂

[@notepic4134]

Yeah me too😂

[@MrMarshEnglishClass]

Your videos are wise and helpful. I am going to rewatch this one and take notes.

[@nicopiscit]

Thank you so much, I really needed this

[@Xengaa]

Thomas' got that "quarantine hair" going on

[@mateussantos1041]

Who noticed "wednesday" spelled wrong on the white board? Great video though, thanks!

[@tonybueno408]

i procrastinate alot at homeand never get any chores done, and i stil dont know why but this video does help me think about what is actually distracting me and finding ways to overcome those distractions. i dont work from home but once im home i dont want to work, and i dont like that. i been trying to fix that. this helps. thank you.

[@rossdonald3189]

Great video Thomas ( Your Sunday Study Playlist keeps me motivated 😀)