One Focus: Using iOS Focus Modes with Intentional Constraint

As we approach summer, I want to share the single most impactful iOS tip that's transformed how I work: using Focus Modes not to do more, but to do less.

Most productivity advice tells you to optimize everything. I'm suggesting the opposite. Pick one Focus Mode. Use it religiously. Watch what happens.

The Problem with Focus Mode Proliferation

When Apple introduced Focus Modes, the natural instinct was to create modes for everything: Work Focus, Personal Focus, Reading Focus, Workout Focus, Sleep Focus. I fell into this trap initially, spending more time managing my Focus Modes than actually focusing.

Sound familiar? It's the same pattern we see everywhere in digital productivity: tools designed to simplify end up creating new complexity.

The One-Focus Philosophy

Instead, try this: Create exactly one custom Focus Mode. Call it "Essential" or "Deep Work" or simply "Focus." Configure it once. Use it for everything that matters.

Here's my setup:

That's it. When I need to think deeply, solve a problem, or create something meaningful, this mode eliminates every distraction except the truly essential.

The Magic Shortcut

Here's where it gets interesting. I've created a Shortcuts automation that pairs perfectly with this constraint philosophy:

"Start Essential Work" Shortcut

• Enables Focus Mode - Activates my single Essential Focus
• Opens FocusAnchor - Loads my current task
• Sets Timer - 45-minute focused work block
• Logs Session - Adds entry to my work journal in Bear

Want the actual shortcut? Here's the simple version you can recreate:

Actions:
1. Set Focus → "Essential" → Turn On
2. Open App → FocusAnchor
3. Start Timer → 45 minutes → Label: "Deep Work"
4. Add Text → "Started focused work session" → Save to Bear

The beauty is in what it doesn't do. No complex logic, no multiple choices, no optimization anxiety. One shortcut. One purpose. Maximum impact.

Why This Works: The Cognitive Science

Our brains aren't designed for context switching. Every time you change focus, there's a cognitive switching penalty that can last up to 23 minutes. By using one Focus Mode consistently, you're training your brain to recognize: "This is thinking time."

The apps we've built at DigTek follow this same principle. FocusAnchor shows you one task. NoteToSelf allows one active thought. Constraint isn't limitation—it's liberation from decision fatigue.

The Challenge

As summer approaches, I challenge you to try the One-Focus approach when fall hits:

• Delete all your current Focus Modes (yes, really)
• Create one Essential Focus Mode using my template above
• Build the simple shortcut and add it to Control Center
• Use only this focus mode for deep work when things start back up

Track what happens. I predict you'll find yourself going deeper into work, thinking more clearly, and paradoxically getting more done by trying to do less.

Beyond Focus Modes: The Bigger Picture

This approach reflects something deeper about technology design. The best tools disappear. They become invisible extensions of your thinking, not obstacles to navigate.

Every DigTek app follows this principle:

• One active note in NoteToSelf prevents overwhelm
• One current task in FocusAnchor eliminates choice paralysis
• One rating per day in DayRater encourages intentional reflection

The pattern is constraint as liberation. Limitation as a feature, not a bug.

Your Turn

Try the One-Focus. I'd love to hear how it works for you. Email me at developer@digtek.app with your results.

Less, but better.

André creates apps that enhance rather than overwhelm at DigTek. Follow the journey of thoughtful technology at digtek.app.