Use This Technique to Accomplish More

We all have busy days, with lots of interruptions, and distractions. How would you like to get a lot done and still feel refreshed when it’s time to go home? Many time management techniques have been developed over the years. Some are more effective than others. Here is a simple technique you can use to accomplish more and feel less tired at the end of the day.

The Pomodoro Technique was invented in the early 1990’s by Francesco Cirillo and is among the most popular. This time management system has been around for a long time and utilizes alternating periods of work and short breaks to maximize how much you get done while still feeling less frazzled at the end of the day.

Taking regular breaks gives your brain a chance to relax, reset, and reduce eye strain from staring at your computer. Knowing that you only have to work for a short period of time makes it much easier to stay engaged, focused, and motivated. This technique works well with all types of work such as intellectual, manual, and creative tasks.

The Pomodoro Technique is a very simple productivity boosting method to implement. The only thing you need is a timer. It uses four cycles of 25 minutes of work with five minutes of break time. Then you take a longer break after the fourth cycle of 15 to 30 minutes and then repeat. You will notice this technique avoids multi-tasking. Studies show that you accomplish less when you try to multi-task.

Use the Pomodoro Technique and accomplish more each day:

1. Utilize a timer. It’s a mistake to keep one eye on the clock while you’re trying to get your work done. Use a timer and position it so you can’t see it. You can use your cell phone, computer, or a physical timer. There are specialized programs and apps for your computer or cell phone available online. Just do a web search for Pomodoro Technique timers and find the one that works best for you. They will incorporate your work time, break time, and longer breaks. The use of a timer is critical to this technique’s success. It allows you to not worry about how much time has passed which helps you stay focused on the task.
2. Experiment with different intervals. Many people thrive with the traditional schedule of 25 minutes of work alternated with five minute rest breaks. Others do well with 50 minutes of work and 10-minute breaks. See which works best for you. Consider trying other options, too. You may find that certain tasks work better with longer or shorter intervals. It’s important to experiment and be flexible in your approach.
3. Avoid distractions. The main reason this technique works is focusing intently on the task at hand. You are able to forget about time and really engage with what you are working on. That means, no checking your phone, phone calls, checking email. Let others know you don’t want to be disturbed. You’ll have a quick break in just a few minutes, so keep your mind on track. Remember, if you do get interrupted, you will have to start the cycle over again.

That’s all there is to it. Give it a try for a few days and compare it to how much you get done without the technique. The Pomodoro Technique helps enhance your ability to focus, concentrate, and stay engaged with the task at hand. Most people find this time management technique highly effective and reach the end of their day feeling much more refreshed with more accomplished than usual. Use this technique to accomplish more and see just how much you can get done while not feeling as tired each day.

If you would like help implementing this technique, please reach out.