Perfection is the Enemy of Done—Use Timers.

Notice how one assignment can turn into into a 3 hour-long nightmare?

Without a timer, it’s easy to get lost in the quest for perfection. Setting a timer keeps tasks to the allotted time, helping students move on rather than over-polishing a not-so-shiny apple. Perfection is the enemy of done. A timer sets a clear boundary, reminding students that perfect is less important than finished. It’s not about cutting corners—it’s about maximizing effort and respecting deadlines.

Ever watched a pot of water waiting for it to boil? That’s what homework without a timer feels like. But toss in a timer, and suddenly, there’s an end in sight. Timers are like friendly little nudges reminding us that time is ticking, and there’s fun to be had—after homework. Encourage your child, whether they’re 10 or 22, to set a timer for each task on their to do list. By setting a timer for each task on your to-do list, you break work into manageable chunks, making it less about the marathon and more about a series of quick sprints.

Studies show that timed sessions enhance focus and productivity by creating a sense of urgency that keeps the brain engaged. Think about it—when you know the clock’s ticking, it’s a race against time, and that’s a race we’re geared to win.

Ready to help your student sharpen their focus and make homework less of a chore? Encourage them to grab a timer, set it, and get down to business. They may be surprised at how much they can accomplish, and might even have time to spare for a little extra fun.