Body doubling, a productivity technique where individuals work alongside another person to boost focus and accountability, is gaining traction in the UK. Traditionally associated with in-person collaboration, this practice has evolved with the rise of remote working, giving birth to body doubling apps and live-streaming platforms that aim to replicate the experience virtually.
Searches for “what is body doubling” have surged by 43% over the past year in the UK, reflecting a growing interest in this approach to tackling procrastination. To explore this trend, Aman Parmar of BizSpace interviewed Naomi Magnus, psychotherapist and founder of North London Therapy Practice, to delve into the psychological benefits and challenges of body doubling in a remote work context.
The mechanics of body doubling
Body doubling involves completing tasks while another person is present, which can enhance motivation and reduce procrastination. In a remote setting, apps and live-streaming platforms are designed to replicate this setup, allowing users to livestream their workdays or watch pre-recorded sessions of others working. This creates an environment that mimics the presence of a colleague or partner, fostering a sense of accountability.
Naomi Magnus explains, “Body doubling makes use of another person’s presence to enhance motivation and accountability. Having someone nearby can reduce feelings of isolation, improve concentration, and encourage task completion.” She adds, “When people feel like they’re being watched, it can boost their behaviour or accountability, driven by a mix of fear of judgement and social pressure.”
Potential drawbacks of body doubling
While body doubling has its advantages, Magnus warns of potential downsides. “Workers could become dependent on others for productivity, which might hinder performance when these apps are unavailable,” she notes.
Magnus also highlights how body doubling may affect creativity. “The presence of another person could disrupt the flow of ideas for those who prefer working alone. It might make them feel less free to explore their thoughts.”
A further concern is the risk of unhealthy comparisons. “Comparing yourself to others can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. It can create unrealistic expectations and distract you from personal growth, potentially increasing anxiety or pressure to meet external standards.”
Advice for remote workers
For those working alone, Magnus recommends strategies to maintain focus. “Create a dedicated workspace free from distractions, establish a routine with set hours, and use productivity techniques like time blocking. Limit digital distractions by avoiding social media apps and turning off notifications.”
Corporate perspective on body doubling
Aman Parmar, head of marketing at BizSpace, points out that younger generations, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, are driving the adoption of modern workstyles. “They value flexibility and often prefer a hybrid approach that balances in-office social interaction with the option to work from home occasionally.”
But Parmar acknowledges the challenges. “While body doubling services can boost productivity for some, as Naomi mentioned, they may stifle creativity. Additionally, these apps might raise data privacy concerns among IT professionals.”
Parmar suggests companies focus on creating work environments that foster both productivity and creativity. “Providing spaces for individual focus alongside areas for collaborative work can encourage creative thinking. It’s about striking the right balance to meet diverse employee needs.”
BizSpace, a leading provider of flexible workspaces in the UK, has been supporting organisations for over two decades with tailored workspace solutions. Their offerings include serviced offices, coworking spaces, and industrial units designed to help businesses thrive in evolving work landscapes.
