How to Actually Focus While Using Slack:
Slack is essential for many teams. It's also the number one source of distraction. Focus isn't automatic - you have to design for it.
Start with notifications
Silence channels that don't need your eyes. Star the ones that do. Turn on "Do Not Disturb" blocks when you need deep work.
Contain the sprawl
Reply in threads to keep channels readable. Pin decisions so people don't have to scroll. Save key items as your personal short list.
Batch your time
Don't live in Slack. Open it a few times a day, handle what matters, then close it. Treat it like email, not a constant feed.
Set cultural rules
Agree with your team what deserves an interrupt. Everything else can wait. Slack is only as frantic as the norms you allow.
Ask yourself
If you've tried all of this and Slack still eats your attention, is the problem your habits - or is it Slack itself?
For those ready to push past the limitations, Float AI adds a split inbox, summaries, and fast AI search to make focus possible again.