Pomodoro Technique [Fight distractions and be more efficient!]

Greetings all!

One of my favorite time-management techniques is called the Pomodoro Technique. Developed in the 1980s by Francesco Cirillo, it is named after a tomato-shaped kitchen timer.

Tasks are divided into 25-minute intervals, which is a much more manageable time period than an hour, for example. Your focusing just on one task for 25 minutes at a time will most likely result in you being more efficient and productive. In summary, you divide your time and conquer your interruptions!

Here is a nice 2.5 minute intro: https://youtu.be/VFW3Ld7JO0w

According to https://francescocirillo.com/pages/pomodoro-technique, “the fundamentals of the Pomodoro Technique are simple yet incredibly effective (emphasis mine).

1. Choose a task you'd like to get done

Something big, something small, something you’ve been putting off for a million years: it doesn’t matter. What matters is that it’s something that deserves your full, undivided attention.

2. Set the Pomodoro for 25 minutes

Make a small oath to yourself: I will spend 25 minutes on this task and I will not interrupt myself. You can do it! After all, it’s just 25 minutes.

3. Work on the task until the Pomodoro rings

Immerse yourself in the task for the next 25 minutes. If you suddenly realize you have something else you need to do, write the task down on a sheet of paper.

4. When the Pomodoro rings, put a checkmark on a paper

Congratulations! You’ve spent an entire, interruption-less Pomodoro on a task.

5. Take a short break on a paper

Breathe, meditate, grab a cup of coffee, go for a short walk or do something else relaxing (i.e., not work-related). Your brain will thank you later.

6. Every 4 pomodoros, take a longer break on a paper

Once you’ve completed four pomodoros, you can take a longer break. 20 minutes is good. Or 30. Your brain will use this time to assimilate new information and rest before the next round of Pomodoros.”

I find this technique also provides health benefits if the task requires prolonged sitting, especially at the computer. Getting up often helps your back and your spine!

And of course, you can divide tasks into the intervals that work better for you or a specific task. Even a tiny pomodoro (e.g., a 3-minute one!) is effective and gets some things done (sort the mail, wash dishes, etc.). 

What do you think? Drop me a line!