Executive dysfunction (EFD) can lead to problems with executive functional skills such as planning and organization, administrative time, and multitasking. It can be caused by many conditions, but as neurodivisioned learners or workers, they are as capable as others.
There are many technical tools and strategies that may help improve executive function. Here are some tools you can try to help solve problems that everyone struggles with from time to time: attention and effective time planning.
1. Stay on Task
Stay on Task is an extension of Google Chrome that may significantly increase your productivity. It combines a website blocker with a to-do list, a two-pronged approach that keeps you on task. If you try to access a blocked website, you will be redirected to your original to-do list.
Stay on Task is very simple, efficient, and free to use.
2. Marinara Timer
Marinara is another productivity timer, and it’s very fluid. It is a free web tool that lets you choose one of three options: Pomodoro, Custom Timer, or Kitchen Timer. Whatever your choice, you’ll benefit from a bold interface that’s hard to ignore.
Choose from an eclectic combination of alerts to notify you when the countdown is over. From angel songs to fire alarms, this may not be the best option for a busy office or classroom! You can use the Marinara timer. You can use the Marinara timer on multiple computers so the team can maintain the same schedule.
3. Habitica
Habitica is a free productivity app that encourages you to form good habits and increase productivity by gamifying your tasks, routines, and goals. Habitica has a retro RPG interface. You create and customize an avatar, then add your tasks and regulars.
When you do something in real life, tick it in the app to get rewards or enjoy the treatment in the game. Habitica’s social element makes it perfect for working with friends for extra responsibility. It may appeal to children, but it is also suitable for anyone.
Download: Habitica for iOS | Android (Free, subscription available)
4. Pomodor
If you’re working in front of a computer, a web tool that helps you with Your Pomodoro timing will come in handy. Bookmark Pomodor, a simple assistant that lets you set working and rest times and send notifications to remind you when you stop working. Pomodor is free.
5. Time Timer
Time Timer is one of the simplest timers. It visualizes the passage of time through a red disc. Set the length of your timer, press the Start key, and watch the disc disappear over time. When you complete a task, let Time Timer run, and you’ll have a specific reminder of the time you’ve spent on that task.
You can save timers for different purposes, adjust the color of the disk, and choose how the app reminds you when the time is up. Time Timer has a desktop, mobile, and Apple Watch apps. A range of stand-alone timer products is also available from the Time Timer website.
Download: Time Timer for iOS | Android (Free)
6. Be Focused
Be Focused is a focused timer that allows you to take the Pomodoro timer approach to get the job done. Pomodorofa is a concept of time management, that is, the task is broken down into 25-minute time periods, each with a short break.
This approach is good for people with EFD problems because it helps break down tasks to accommodate short-lived attention spans. At the same time, regular breaks allow you to refocus your attention.
With more than 5 million users worldwide, Be Focused is one of the best focus timer apps out there. Its simple interface enables you to manage your tasks and rest. Upgrading to the Pro version removes ads and lets you back up, export, and sync your data between devices.
Download: Be Focused for iOS (Free) | Be Focused Pro for iOS ($4.99)
7. Tiimo
Tiimo is for those who struggle to keep tasks on and plan their day. It is a visual daily schedule application that helps you build routines that fit you, so you can organize your entire day and minimize any issues with planning and time management.
Tiimo has a comprehensive feature set. The extensive set of prefabricated procedures and activities covers all aspects of everyday life. However, you can customize everything to suit your preferences and you can easily import your existing calendar.
The visual timeline uses colors, icons, and emojis to help you easily keep track. You can use notifications to remind you, not only of upcoming events, but also of halfway and the end of a time period. Tiimo is designed to embrace and support neurodiversity, including EFD issues.
Download: Tiimo for iOS | Android (Subscription required, free trial available)
8. Forest
Forest is a gamified timer that has won numerous awards and has over 40 million users worldwide. It has a simple but excellent concept. When you need to put down your phone and stay focused on your tasks, plant a seed in Forest. Leaving a seed allows it to grow into a tree. However, using your phone will cause your tree to wither.
Stay motivated, ignore your phone, and over time, grow a forest. And when you unlock achievements, you can plant real trees as a reward to save the planet and improve your habits.
This app is very good for time management and anyone who needs help reducing screen time.
Download: Forest for iOS ($3.99) | Android (Free, premium version available)
Stay focused and motivated with time management apps
There are so many distractions in the world that it’s hard to stay organized and make every moment meaningful. For anyone with EFD issues, these issues can make work, study, and even routine tasks more tricky. Use these tools and resources to promote good time management and enjoy the positive feeling of knowing that you are intentionally taking advantage of every moment of your day.
