Focusmate

Working alone from home can be difficult: distractions are plentiful and procrastination thrives. Focusmate tackles the problem with a surprisingly simple solution: video chat with another worker for an hour and declare what you'll each do. Mutual accountability works.

Focusmate is a virtual coworking platform based on the principle of shared accountability. The mechanism is simple: you book a work session of 25, 50 or 75 minutes, and at the agreed time you're matched with another person — almost always a stranger — who connects via video chat. At the start of the session each person declares what they intend to do, gets to work, and at the end shares what they managed to complete. There are no instructions, no text chat, just the silent presence of the other worker. This body doubling mechanism — having someone present while you work — is supported by research on ADHD and procrastination as an effective tool for maintaining focus. The community is global and active 24 hours a day, so sessions are available in any time zone. The platform lets you choose preferred partners, rate past sessions and manage upcoming bookings. It's one of the most original productivity tools around, valued by remote workers, students and freelancers.

For remote workers, freelancers, students and anyone who struggles with procrastination or distractions at home and wants a concrete system to stay focused.

Focusmate offers a free plan with 3 sessions per week. The Plus plan costs $6.99 per month (or $69.99 per year) and gives unlimited sessions, the ability to choose sessions of 25, 50 or 75 minutes and additional features such as preferred partners. It's one of the most affordable productivity tools in its category relative to the value it offers.