In addition, consider combining the Pomodoro Technique with the Domino Effect, specifically the ‘Don’t Break The Chain’ method for creating unbroken streaks of Pomodoros to build momentum and consistency. We’ve already discussed the clear link this approach has to Focused and Diffused Thinking and the power of Deep Work, which serves as a reminder of the myth of multitasking. Consider longer breaks or smaller sets of Pomodoros, or anything that works best for you. Play with having a Pomodoro filled morning, then having unstructured afternoons. Consider extending the time either consistently or for certain times in the day. We suggest applying the Pomodoro Technique as recommended for a few weeks, then experiment to discover what works best for you. Track each completed Pomodoro you achieve but remember that any interruption that you fail to quickly redirect will make it void. Gamify the Pomodoro Technique by establishing goals for how many you want to achieve per day or week. Break down any task that will take more than 5 Pomodoros into more manageable activities, and chunk small tasks that can be themed together into a single Pomodoro. And what about those never-ending emails? Maybe timebox your responses for a single Pomodoro every couple of days. Have to make sense of survey data? Probably two Pomodoros.
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Have to write that report? Based on the last time that’s probably going to take you around four Pomodoros. Likewise, use Pomodoros as your currency for estimation. Other days might have half a dozen or more. Some days will be engulfed by meetings or other distractions, so you might only have a handful in the morning.
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In the morning, when thinking about your day, consider how many Pomodoros - or uninterrupted periods of 25m - the day holds for you. More than a productivity hack, the Pomodoro Technique can become your way of viewing time and tasks. Ideally, this will mean unplugging from screens and even moving your body. Just as you take focusing seriously, consider how you might take real breaks to encourage diffuse thinking and a ‘cognitive reset’ between each Pomodoro. It might sound a bit over the top to be so strict but as well as completing a 25m chunk of work, you’re also trying to train yourself to work in these periods of focused time as a habit. Note down what happened with the view of avoiding the interuption in the future, then reset your time and try again. When you are interrupted and unable to return to focus within a minute, consider that Pomodoro as void. Using a timer, don’t just rely on your impression of time. Sticking with your focus until the 25m is complete, even if you finish the task spend time reviewing the work or reflecting on how you might improve it. Redirecting any interruptions with the aim of returning to focused work within a few seconds Ĭapturing any distracting thoughts or unrelated tasks on a separate piece of paper or list before refocusing Īvoiding toilet breaks and getting snacks during the 25m. Signalling to people that you’re in a focused period and not to be disturbed Turning off notifications and digital distractions To make the most of the approach, be sure that your focused time remains uninterrupted, this involves:
![understanding the pomodoro cycle understanding the pomodoro cycle](https://media-1.carnegiecouncil.org/import/studio/_1500xAUTO_crop_center-center_none/Can-Asians-Think.jpg)
The Pomodoro Technique is in fact a practical application of Focused and Diffused Thinking and Deep Work which have been shown to increase productivity, creativity and learning. Many people are happy with the basics of the Pomodoro Technique - after all, getting stuff done with tomatoes, what’s not to like? However, there’s more to this simple approach than meets the eye. After four of these Pomodoros, take a longer break of between 15 to 30m.
![understanding the pomodoro cycle understanding the pomodoro cycle](https://www.torchstoneglobal.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/info.png)
The Pomodoro Technique is a productivity hack where you choose a task, then focus on it for 25m, followed by a 5m break. You’re likely aware of the basics of the Pomodoro Technique, but are you making the most of it?