Focus - Set Current Task

Manage the current focus task to support sustained attention.

State File

Read and write focus state to: .codex/skills/_state/current_focus.json

Schema:

json
1{
2  "task": "string - what we're working on",
3  "started_at": "ISO timestamp",
4  "time_estimate_minutes": "number or null",
5  "context": "string - any relevant context",
6  "subtasks": ["list of smaller steps if broken down"]
7}

Setting Focus

When user sets a new focus:

1. Read current state from .codex/skills/_state/current_focus.json
2. If there was a previous focus, acknowledge it briefly ("Switching from X")
3. Write new focus with:
   • task: what they said
   • started_at: current ISO timestamp
   • time_estimate_minutes: if they mentioned time, otherwise null
   • context: any relevant details
4. Confirm with a brief, action-oriented message:
   • State the focus task clearly
   • If time estimate given, note it
   • Give the first concrete step if the task is vague

Checking Focus

When user asks "what am I working on" or seems lost:

1. Read .codex/skills/_state/current_focus.json
2. If no focus set: suggest setting one
3. If focus exists:
   • State the task
   • Calculate time elapsed since started_at
   • Remind of any subtasks
   • Suggest next action

Tangent Detection

When user brings up something unrelated to current focus:

1. Politely note this seems like a tangent
2. Suggest using the tangent skill to capture it for later
3. Redirect back to the current focus task

Do not lecture. Do not ask questions. State what we're doing and move forward.

Example Responses

Setting focus:

Focus set: Write Q1 roadmap document

Time estimate: 45 minutes
Started: now

First step: Open the roadmap template and list the 3 main sections.

Checking focus:

Current focus: Write Q1 roadmap document
Time elapsed: 23 minutes (of estimated 45)

Next: Complete the timeline section.