Distraction Journal
In today's fast-paced world, managing distractions and maintaining focus is a significant challenge for many individuals. To address this issue, a prototype of a distraction journal was designed to help users track their daily tasks, identify distractions, incorporate mindfulness techniques, and provide creative outlets for expression.
Project
Project Type: UX/UI Design
Duration: 3-4 months
Role: UX/UI Researcher & Designer, alongside other UX/UI Researcher & Designer
Background
The concept of a distraction journal emerged from the need for a tool that combines task management with mindfulness practices. Traditional journals often lack structured sections for tracking distractions and incorporating mindfulness techniques, leading to a gap in the market for a more holistic approach to productivity and mental well-being.
Problem Statement
Many individuals struggle with distractions, which can significantly impact productivity and mental health. Existing journals and productivity tools often fail to provide a comprehensive solution that addresses both task management and mindfulness. The problem lies in creating a tool that not only helps users manage their tasks effectively but also fosters awareness of distractions and promotes mindfulness.
Initial Research focusing Neurodivergent people
Before designing the initial prototype, research was conducted on the ADHD community to better understand their specific needs and challenges related to focus and distractions. This research revealed several key insights. Specific to ADHD, research revealed distinctions between hyperactivity/impulsivity and inattention, the link to novelty-seeking and time perception differences, the occurrence of hyperfocus, and the tension between creativity and analytical processing.
For autism, the research highlighted cognitive, social, and sensory differences, including patterns of activity, repetitive behaviors, and challenges with executive function, while emphasizing the importance of customization, simple language and graphics, gentle guidance, and opportunities for connection within a supportive community.
Design Process & Iteration
With the research finding on our mind, we initially created a design, gathered up some ideas and rough sketches and got to work. The complete design process involved multiple iterations, informed by initial research, user feedback, and a focus on creating a user-friendly and effective tool.
Initial Design
The initial design featured a distraction tracking section with columns for "Distraction," "Time," and "Follow Up?". It also included sections for brainstorming, doodling, and mindfulness reminders such as hourly deep breaths, hydration breaks, and stretching.
Second Iteration
The latest iteration includes a guide, simplifying the journal's use. Key elements include writing down distractions, noting the time, and identifying if a follow-up is necessary. This design has more elements to it. With more space to draw and brainstorm, and many more features which are catered to the journalist which wasn't there in the initial design.
Key Findings
To evaluate the distraction journal prototype, a sample group of 8 participants aged 18 to 28 was selected. Each participant used the prototype for one week and provided feedback through interviews. Key findings included:
-
Participants found the journal easy to use and navigate, appreciating its intuitive layout.
-
The "To-Do List" section was highly valued for prioritizing tasks and staying focused.
-
The "What distracted you" section increased users' awareness of productivity blockers, though some suggested adding a scale to differentiate between significant and trivial distractions.
-
Hydration breaks and deep breathing reminders were well-received for alleviating stress and improving focus.
-
The brainstorming and sketching sections provided a creative outlet, with users appreciating the ability to express thoughts and emotions visually.
-
Some participants found it difficult to determine the importance of distractions, suggesting the inclusion of a scale or rating system to differentiate between significant and trivial distractions.
Few of the Journaled Journals
​
Final Iteration
For the final version of the design, the interaction was simulated as if the journal was a digital application. The functionality of adding labels to each of the journal entries with custom categories that the user can use to filter their entries as well as search within the app for previous versions was added. Pre-labeled tags were included for the sake of the example.
For Future Development
Catering to both artistic (bullet journaling, doodle spaces, creative typography) and analytical (checklists, timelines) preferences.
-
A system of stickers, badges, and rewards to encourage engagement.
-
Customizable fonts, color schemes, and layouts.
-
Prompts and positive reinforcement messages.
-
A buddy system for shared goal tracking and accountability.
-
Autoplay control to prevent sensory overload.
-
Custom categories and tags for enhanced organization.
Final Thoughts
The distraction journal prototype, starting from a simple paper version and evolving towards a simulated digital application, received positive feedback for its usability, task management features, and mindfulness techniques. Informed by initial research on neurodiversity and iterative user feedback, the prototype demonstrates potential as a holistic tool for managing distractions and promoting focus, particularly within neurodiverse populations. Future iterations will focus on further refining the design based on user insights, incorporating features that cater to a wide range of neurodivergent needs, and exploring the feasibility of a digital application that offers even greater customization and support.