I have a 3" clock in the bedroom sewing area - just so I can see what time it is without getting up.
I have a clock radio in my large sewing area. It has a 'sleep mode'. When you press a button, it plays for 1 hour and shuts off.
I use this mode when I'm trying to sneak in a fast/quick/get her done iron/decide/cut/sew/cleanup-athon...(usually in the morning before work :) or before starting dinner). I can hear the local news and weather and time and work quickly till the radio shuts off one hour later.
It's amazing what I can accomplish with a limited amount of time like 1 hour! I STAY FOCUSED to the task at hand and let the laundry and dinner wait...cause I only have 1 hour to sew!
Sneaky huh?