The Pomodoro technique was invented by Francesco Cirillo, and it is called the Pomodoro technique because he used such a beautiful kitchen timer in the shape of a tomato as a timer.
The technique is very simple:
You work in 'Pomodoro's': these are time blocks of 25 minutes. You set a timer (that could just be a timer on your phone or computer) and you get to work
When the timer goes off, take a five minute break
You set the timer again for 25 minutes and go to work undistracted.
After four pomodoros you take a longer break, 20 – 25 minutes.
There are a few "rules":
You don't get distracted by other things while working on a Pomodoro.
You work on one task and do nothing else.
If you get distracted, reset the timer and start over.
If you find this difficult, put your phone on airplane mode.
During your break you really take some distance from your work.
You go for a walk, make coffee, talk to a colleague, leaf through a magazine: whatever.
But you are not busy with work.
You either do it or you don't.
If you get distracted, reset your timer and start over.
Teach yourself to work on a task continuously for 25 minutes.
That is it. Simple, right?
I used the Pomodoro technique years ago, but have started to use it enthusiastically again since I use a planner on a daily basis.
This planner uses to do lists that you complete with this technique.
You make an estimate in advance of how many Pomodoros you think you will spend on a task, and then you enter how much time it actually took.
Working with this technique ensures that I work really well focused and concentrated and that I get into a flow faster.
I work without distraction.
No WhatsApp, not even checking Instagram, no: just concentrated on working for 25 minutes without switching.
You work towards that five-minute break: that literally and figuratively gives you some breathing space in your work.
Because you take a really good break, even if it is only five minutes, you clear your head and you can get back to work focused.
I am much more productive!
This technique works for a lot of different types of work, and it's really useful for studying too.
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