What sets TotalPause apart from others?
TotalPause is specifically designed to notify you based on your activity level, not on a fixed timer schedule. It requires minimal user interaction and strives to be minimally disruptive. (In most cases, you shouldn't notice that TotalPause is running when the 'Disable Prompts When Idle' option is checked. This is precisely what TotalPause aims to achieve.)
With these guidelines, TotalPause also offers a simple method for practicing breathing exercises and more during the break, enhancing focus and promoting calm.
If you're interested, there is a blog post about why and how it was built: Reminding Myself to Take a Break - The Hard Way
Does TotalPause support Do-Not-Disturb mode?
Yes, TotalPause resides in your menu bar, enabling this feature is straightforward.
Additionally, TotalPause offers advanced application and video detection features designed to intelligently prevent interruptions during active screen use. (Note that some platforms, like Steam, store their actual applications in ~/Library/Application Support/Steam/steamapps/common/.)
Why full-screen prompts? Can I add more customized fancy stuff to the prompt?
Normal notifications are often not strong enough. Full-screen prompts with a click-only close method introduce a slight challenge. While it may be annoying, it is efficient because it creates a buffer, making you aware of your working time and allowing for a quick internal debate, leading to a well-deserved break.
If an app or window involves uninterruptible important tasks, you can mark them as privileged using TotalPause’s advanced feature. However, TotalPause can only handle simple cases like this. You can also prioritize your tasks to manage your workload better.
The full-screen prompt is already a hard tradeoff. Adding more attention-grabbing elements might be visually appealing but could also bring side effects that disturb and decrease focus.
Does TotalPause collect any user data?
All your data is securely stored on your local computer, while payment information is held by Apple.
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