Body-doubling is a casual form of accountability. As you see other people being productive it causes you to also be/stay productive, so you get more done.
Other souls (or those with heartbeats) serve as a passive reminder that we’re supposed to be on task so we’re less likely to get distracted.
This is a concept employed by many people with ADHD, but it’s for anyone who finds themselves easily distracted and pulled off task often.
Click the following links to learn more about the concept:
What is a “body double,” and how does it help?
Why People with ADHD Procrastinate [worth watching even if you do not live with ADHD; mentions body-doubling as a way to overcome lack of motivation]