TasklingBody doubling: why working next to someone helps you start
Body doubling means working on your own task while someone else is present, at the same table, on a video call or in a live study stream. Many people, especially with ADHD, find it makes starting and staying on task easier. Research is still early, so treat it as an experiment.
Key takeaways
- The other person does not help with your task, they are just there.
- It works in person, on calls and with recorded study videos.
- Evidence is early and mixed, so test it on yourself.
Ways to try it
- In person: work at a friend's kitchen table or in a library.
- On a call: agree on tasks, mute, check in at the end.
- Study with me videos: work alongside a recorded or live stream.
- Cafe mode: the quiet presence of strangers helps some people.
A simple 50 minute session
- Say your one task out loud.
- Work for 45 minutes.
- Share what you got done in 5 minutes.
Try it in Taskling
Pair a body doubling call with a Taskling focus session. Pick your task before the call, start the timer together, and check it off when you are done.
Quick answers
Is body doubling only for ADHD?
No. Many people find it helpful, especially for boring or avoided tasks.
Does the other person need to be productive?
Usually it helps if they are working too, but quiet company can be enough.
Guides and research
Guides and research
Guides and research