Break Through Plateaus with Centered's Calendar Judo

Centered: A New App to Enhance Focus and Productivity

Centered is a newly launched application engineered to facilitate focused work sessions, protect your scheduled time, and provide assistance in maintaining productivity. The platform enables virtual co-working experiences with colleagues and utilizes calming musical tracks designed to promote concentration. The company recently secured $3.9 million in funding to address challenges in the modern workday.

The Pursuit of "Flow State"

Experiencing a state of deep concentration, often referred to as “flow” or “being in the zone,” is a common desire for individuals engaged in enjoyable tasks. However, many traditional work environments hinder the attainment of this mental state. Consequently, some professionals resort to unconventional schedules, such as arriving early or working late, to accomplish their objectives.

Features of the Centered Application

The application facilitates virtual co-working sessions, displaying participants as video thumbnails. This visual presence encourages accountability, reducing distractions like phone usage or unnecessary breaks during focused work periods. Furthermore, Centered incorporates “Flow Music,” consisting of ambient, low-tempo compositions intended to signal the brain to enter a productive mindset.

A built-in personal assistant, described as a “Siri for Productivity” by the founder, is also included.

Replicating a Distraction-Free Environment

“The sensation of being on an airplane, donning headphones, and experiencing complete isolation is remarkably conducive to focused work,” explains Ulf Schwekendiek, founder and CEO of Centered. “Suddenly, you find yourself producing a substantial amount of work in a short timeframe due to the absence of interruptions. We aim to recreate this experience within Centered.”

Upon initiating a flow session, users are guided by a bot named Noah. This assistant monitors progress, provides time updates, and gently redirects attention if distractions are detected, functioning similarly to a parent reminding a child to focus on homework.

Funding and Team Expansion

Ulf Schwekendiek, founder and CEO of Centered. Image Credits: Centered

The company has announced a $3.9 million funding round, spearheaded by Uncork Capital and Yes VC, with additional investment from JLL Spark, Shrug Capital, Basement Fund, AVG Basement, Remote First, and various angel investors.

“This funding allows us to move beyond a solo operation,” states Schwekendiek. “We are now building out our engineering, design, and content teams. It also enables us to secure larger content partnerships, enhance our music library, and improve the quality of our voice-overs. Critically, we are beginning to leverage the valuable data we are collecting regarding work patterns.”

Data Privacy and User Retention

The Centered app in action. Image Credits: Centered

The founder emphasizes that all data is handled in an aggregated, anonymous, and secure manner. The company has not disclosed the valuation associated with this funding round.

Positive User Outcomes

“Early adopters of our product have reported completing their work 30% faster than anticipated, alongside increased happiness and reduced stress levels,” says Schwekendiek. “Our most engaged users spend between three and five hours daily utilizing Centered as their primary productivity tool. Furthermore, we observe a nearly 100% user retention rate after the first week of use.”