Gretchen Rubin's Recommendations: Saving Time and Improving Focus | Gretchen Rubin [Skip to content](#content) [ ![](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/gretchenrubin-logo-768x344.png) ](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com) - March 17, 2025 - [Organization](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/tag/organization/) # Gretchen Rubin’s Recommendations: Saving Time and Improving Focus ![](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Time_Management_Focus.webp) When it comes to saving time and staying focused, the right tools can make all the difference. Sometimes, we rely on workarounds or makeshift solutions that drain our energy. Whether it’s a gadget that eliminates an unnecessary errand or a tool that streamlines a daily task, investing in the right items can free up mental space and give us back valuable time. *This post includes products that I believe in and love myself. It also includes affiliate links, meaning I will receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase from these links. This never comes at any cost to you.* [ ![](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/71-el-E08rL._AC_SX679_.jpg) ](https://amzn.to/3EuhuBr) ## [Visual focus timer](https://amzn.to/3EuhuBr) Visual timers are a terrific way to keep yourself on task, or even motivate yourself to start. [ ![](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/51ePR8m076L._AC_SX679_-1024x1024.jpg) ](https://amzn.to/40VdLo4) ## [Loop earplugs](https://amzn.to/40VdLo4) If you find it hard to focus with too much background noise, *and* when it’s too quiet, these comfortable noise-reducing earplugs may help you find your Goldilocks volume. [ ![](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/71O-zOQwrNL._AC_SX679_-1024x1024.jpg) ](https://amzn.to/4aPXPs1) ## [Speks fidget toy](https://amzn.to/4aPXPs1) Perfect for keeping your hands busy during a long Zoom call. [ ![](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/61c9BlTWKL._AC_SL1500_-1-1024x1024.jpg) ](https://amzn.to/4aTeN8F) ## [Desk treadmill](https://amzn.to/4aTeN8F) Movement benefits your mind as well as your body. A desk treadmill offers an opportunity to move, even you find it hard to get outside. [ ![](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/51ullEjK3TL._AC_SX522_-1024x1024.jpg) ](https://amzn.to/3F3YU3z) ## [Noise cancelling headphones](https://amzn.to/3F3YU3z) Comfortable noise-cancelling headphones can get you in the zone when you need to buckle down and focus. Even if you don’t feel like listening to anything, just putting them on can be an effective “Do not disturb” signal. [ ![](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/619NfCSRfDL._AC_SX466_.jpg) ](https://amzn.to/4h7nHRB) ## [ In use/available sign](https://amzn.to/4h7nHRB) Sometimes in a shared space, it’s hard to tell what’s currently in use and what’s fair game. A simple sign can take the guesswork out of the equation and help everyone feel more comfortable. [ ![](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/61pWzl25eLL._AC_SL1000_-1-1024x1024.jpg) ](https://amzn.to/4iXAOWJ) ## [ Grip strengthener](https://amzn.to/4iXAOWJ) Stronger grip muscles help stabilize wrists, reducing the risk of strains and injuries during daily activities and exercise. Plus, this is a workout I can do during a video call. [ ![](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/41s9DmRSgcL._AC_SX679_-1-1024x1024.jpg) ](https://amzn.to/43oFOPS) ## [ iPad stylus](https://amzn.to/43oFOPS) Sometimes, you just need more precision on a touchscreen. [ shop the list ](https://amzn.to/4bupyPg) ## See Gretchen’s Other Recommendations [ ARCHIVING AND SAVING ](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/uncategorized/gretchen-rubins-archiving-and-saving-guide/) [ USING WHAT YOU HAVE ](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/uncategorized/gretchen-rubins-tips-on-organizing-use-what-you-already-have/) [ MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER ](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/uncategorized/gretchen-rubin-guide-make-life-easier/) [ Simplify Organization ](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/uncategorized/gretchen-rubins-recommendations-make-organizing-simpler/) #### YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE ![Books to Give New Grads Blog Header](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Books-to-Give-New-Grads-Blog-Header-768x512.jpg) [Gretchen Rubin's Recommendations: Book Gifts for New Grads](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/articles/gretchen-rubins-recommendations-book-gifts-for-grads/) ![Making_Organization_Simpler](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Making_Organization_Simpler-768x512.webp) [Gretchen Rubin's Recommendations: Making Organizing Simpler](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/articles/gretchen-rubins-recommendations-make-organizing-simpler/) ![Making_Life_Easier](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Making_Life_Easier-768x512.webp) [Gretchen Rubin's Recommendations: Making Life Easier](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/articles/gretchen-rubin-guide-make-life-easier/) #### DISCOVER MORE # Like what you see? Explore more about this topic. - [Gifts](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/secondary_tag/gifts/), [Organization](https://staging.gretchenrubin.com/secondary_tag/organization/) # Interested in happiness, habits, and human nature? From renowned happiness expert and *New York Times* bestselling author Gretchen Rubin, the “Five Things Making Me Happy” newsletter is one of today’s most popular newsletters. You’ll get a weekly round-up of what’s making Gretchen happy, as well as practical tips, research, and resources about how we can make our lives happier, healthier, more productive, and more creative. Email Submit Manage Cookie Consent To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions. 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