StayFocusd: A Chrome Extension to Limit Time-Wasting Sites
StayFocusd is a popular Chrome extension designed to help you manage time online. Instead of blocking sites completely, it limits how long you can spend on them each day.
Here is why it’s helpful. You decide which sites are distractions, such as YouTube, Twitter, or online shopping pages. Then you set a daily limit. Once that time is used up, StayFocusd blocks access for the rest of the day.
Let’s break it down. The extension is flexible. You can block entire websites, specific pages, or even parts of a page like comment sections. This allows you to tailor it to your exact habits. You also control when the timer resets. Some people prefer a strict 24-hour cycle, while others set limits only during work hours.
One standout feature is the “Nuclear Option.” When activated, it blocks everything you put on your list without any time allowance. This is helpful if you need a complete break from distractions for a set period.
StayFocusd is lightweight, easy to install, and runs directly in your Chrome browser. That makes it a good fit for people who mainly work or study in the browser environment. Unlike full desktop apps, it doesn’t lock your whole computer, but it does create real limits in your browsing time.
The extension works best for people who want gentle restrictions rather than hard locks. If you know you just need a reminder or boundary to stop endless scrolling, this tool is effective.
Next steps: StayFocusd is free to use. Once installed, take a few minutes to create a blocklist of your top distractions. Start with a realistic daily limit, then adjust as you learn how much time you want to free up. This extension is ideal if you’re seeking lightweight control without needing a full blocking system.