(Body Doubling: This term refers to the motivational boost one gets when working with others compared to working alone. Specifically, this piece discusses methods applicable not in natural settings like schools or companies, but for individual work or study.)

Services I Ended Up Using

Workmode

Unlike other services where you do body doubling with other users, Workmode provides a company-employed host who works with me for the sole purpose of assistance.

Among all the services listed, Workmode involves the highest degree of engagement. Saying just that might be an understatement. Compared to other services, Workmode's engagement is exceptionally high.

Other services usually involve body doubling with other users, where if I get distracted, what does my partner think? They might just think 'Oh, he's doing something else.' However, in Workmode, the host actively engages with me to assist. Moreover, the continuity with the same assisting host allows for personalized adaptation. Unlike limited pre-defined services, we can flexibly decide what methods to use through dialogue. If I fail to connect at the agreed time or don't return from a break, they can even call to ensure I get back on track. Besides, while most services are passive, Workmode's service is surprisingly active and proactive; they'll work with me to solve any productivity issues I encounter. It's a fortune to have such a service in the world.

Additionally, a more subtle but big advantage of Workmode is its frictionless nature.

Firstly, there's no need for repeated introductions. Other services usually have one-hour sessions where the first and last five minutes are for discussing goals and results. Sometimes it annoys me.

Secondly, worse in other services is the need to find a new session after one ends.

Thirdly, the worst part is the need to exert willpower to connect to the service.

These frictions, though seemingly minor when considered separately, make a huge difference. Even small differences in friction and accessibility can lead to significant impacts. Since the reason for body doubling is users' irrationality, logical thinking doesn’t matter. Even the smallest friction can lead to stopping the use of the service and potentially ruining one's life.

The downsides of Workmode include set schedules, meaning there are times it's not operational, and it's the most expensive among the listed services.

Think Divergent

This is what I use when Workmode is not operational.

It's a free service conducted solely via chat, making it simple and non-intimidating. Moreover, it reduces the hassle of finding other sessions. Automatic matching with a button press and continuous sessions for as long as both parties are available means there's no need to search for new sessions in the meantime. It's also easily accessible on mobile, making it convenient to use outdoors or on public transport. Of all the services listed, it's the least burdensome.

Available Services

Focusmate

The most well-known among body doubling services. It allows users to conduct 1:1 sessions. Being able to make reservations is what sets this service apart. (Though reservations are possible in other services, they only really have an effect in this kind of 1:1 setting)

Flowclub

Experienced users create rooms for sessions and 4-5 people conduct sessions in each room. While the session times are fixed, one can join midway. Although not 1:1, the host facilitates user engagement. Arguably, a small group like this could be more motivating than 1:1.

Caveday

A company-employed host is present, and sessions are conducted with dozens of users together. Though there is a host, unlike Workmode, they don't involve themselves much with the users during work time (they might lead simple activities like origami during breaks).

The session times are fixed, and one has to join accordingly, which can be both an advantage and a disadvantage.

Study Together

A format where dozens of users proceed without a host. There's some continuity as the same room continues. I think this type of body doubling, where my absence among dozens would go unnoticed, might not be very effective. However, if sufficient camaraderie develops in one room, it could have an effect.

Services with Limited User Availability

Even if a service is mostly available, occasional unavailability can be a significant friction. This alone can be enough to stop using the service. (The difference from Workmode is that it has clearly defined available and unavailable times)

Groove

Users conduct sessions among 2-4 people without a host. Initially free, it's turning paid starting January 23, 2024. Among the services with user shortages, it seems the most promising, so situations might change later. Notably, it has the most modern design among the listed services.

Cofocus

It uses a similar method to Focusmate. It's free.

Social Pomodoro

Similar to Think Divergent. This is also free.

Other Ways

Hiring Real People

Probably the most effective method. While people on Hacker News might deride it, I believe it's 100% rational if one has the resources. (It might be even better to ask the hired people to use a whip.)

Yeolpumta

Essentially a time-tracking app for study/work hours. It allows forming groups with others, showing when someone in the same group is also running the timer. It's very simple, but the lack of friction makes it the most comfortable to use. Seeing a known person working along with me, even if just indicated without a camera, voice, or chat, is encouraging.

Todo Mate

Allows sharing to-do lists with others. So, we can know what each other is planning and completing. Very effective when done with someone well-known. (Why other to-do list apps don't implement this?)

Accountability Buddy

A method of gathering people to share achievements. Can be done with acquaintances or found through Discord/Reddit and similar platforms. The downside is that the outcome heavily depends on the other party. A person found online might suddenly disappear. Of course, one could join a group, but that might dilute the effect. Sufficient camaraderie within the group could make it effective.

Community-Based

Often an additional feature in various productivity apps and websites. This can include the 'Build in Public' approach. As a motivation core, its effectiveness is somewhat questionable.