With computers able to handle so many different functions throughout the day, there are many ways to get distracted and waste time. RescueTime is one of several analytic tools designed to show you how you spend your time so you can streamline your life.
It’s not the only analytics tool out there, though, and you should make sure to explore some of the other options offered below to make sure you get the program that fits your specific needs the best.
1) Time Doctor
Time Doctor functions similarly to RescueTime, but goes one step further and provides more interactivity than the other program. Rather than just track how you are spending your time, this program offers suggestions that can help you improve your productivity as well. You can set parameters that define what is useful time spent and what is unproductive, then use the suggestions provided to make sure you are staying on task. There is even an option to send weekly reports to management about an employee’s Internet usage, providing a way for supervisors to monitor productivity.
2) Stayfocused
Like the other alternatives out there, Stayfocused provides a way to track your activity and gives some tips to use your time more effectively. This free program is designed using what the developers call the Pomodoro Technique, which follows the idea that you should work for 25 minutes straight and then take a five minute break. This is, of course, adjustable within the program. The program also offers some ergonomic support, such as redesigned wallpaper, that is meant to help minimize strain and keep you focused even during the most difficult of activities.
3) ManicTime
This Windows-based program offers time tracking and analytic data that can be used for personal and professional use. It includes options to help you identify how long you are taking on any given task, which can be very useful for billing clients accurately. Like other alternatives, the software analyzes program usage and monitors your browser to see what websites you visit the most. ManicTime includes features designed to make it useful on mobile platforms as well.
4) Toggl
If you are looking for a simple interface that provides an easy way to track time, Toggl might be the way to go. This program has an easy one-click interface that starts and stops a timer for each task. You can choose to track how much time you spend on different websites and with different programs, or you can just set the timer to record the time taken with specific tasks that you input. Toggl includes a free version and a paid version that costs a reasonable $5 per month. If you have doubts about the paid version, you can also try a free 30-day trial to investigate the full array of features.
Keeping track of your time is a very important step in staying productive in both your personal and professional life. You should examine the options presented above thoroughly and see which program suits your needs best. With the help of the right program, you will see your productivity skyrocket.
