Body doubling
What is it?
Do you ever struggle to get started or find yourself easily distracted? Body doubling is a strategy that can help you stay focused and motivated by working alongside someone else. This can be in person, virtually, or even by watching a video of someone working on a task.¹
Why does it work?
Body doubling helps you stay accountable. Having a friend, classmate, or family member near you can help you stay focused, feel less alone, or even remind you to get your work done.¹
Active vs. passive body doubling
There are many ways to utilize body doubling. In active body doubling, the other person is engaging with you in your task.² An example is having someone clean your room with you.
In passive body doubling, the other person is in the same physical or virtual space, but they are independently working on something else.² An example is going to the library with a friend and studying different topics.
Want to get started with body doubling?
If you don’t have a friend or classmate to try in-person body doubling, there are lots of ways to try it virtually.
- Try body doubling virtually with a friend or classmate on video calls using FaceTime or Zoom.
- Try one of the following YouTube videos to see how it works for you.
- Work With Me Pomodoro Session with Lofi music
- Study Session with Pomodoro technique and calming music
- Cozy Afternoon Study Session with Pomodoro Technique and Lofi music
- Read With Me session
Need more support?
Online learning success coaches offer personalized support to help you clarify and achieve your goals, reflect on your habits, and overcome challenges.
Sources
² Come Study with Me: How a Virtual Buddy Might Help You Get Things Done