About Quiet Time
Quiet Time helps reduce digital interruptions, which can be especially helpful for people affected by mental health conditions or who are neurodivergent. Constant notifications and alerts can cause stress, overwhelm, or difficulty focusing.
By setting boundaries around when alerts appear, users can create a calmer, more predictable working environment that supports wellbeing and productivity.
Who this can help
Quiet Time can be especially useful for:
- Neurodivergent users (e.g. ADHD, autism): Reduces unexpected interruptions and helps maintain focus on one task
- People experiencing stress or overwhelm: Creates a calmer, more controlled working environment
- Fatigue or brain fog: Reduces cognitive load from constant notifications
- People in busy or communication-heavy roles: Protects time for deep work
- Anyone who wants fewer distractions: Helps stay focused and productive
What Quiet Time can do
- Block or limit notifications while you work
- Allow only priority alerts (such as important contacts or apps)
- Automatically turn on at certain times or during meetings
- Reduce visual and audio interruptions
Tips for getting the best experience
- Combine Quiet Time with a Daily focus plan
- Use alongside Focus Sessions (in the Clock app)
- Keep a small number of priority notifications active
- Let colleagues know when you are in focus time
- Take breaks between focus periods to check messages and to protect your energy levels
How to turn on Quiet Time in Windows
Turn on Do Not Disturb
- Open Settings from the Start menu
- Choose System then Notifications
- Turn on Do Not Disturb
This will pause most notifications.
Set priority notifications (optional)
- In the same area, choose Set priority notifications
- Select which apps or contacts can still alert you
This is useful if you do not want to miss important messages.
Set automatic rules
Look for options to turn Quiet Time on automatically:
- During specific hours
- When presenting or sharing your screen
- While playing games or using certain apps
This helps keep your focus without needing to switch it on manually.