Work Smarter, Not Harder: The Pomodoro Technique

We all have our busiest busy days. Times when we can no longer take a break for a bath or a drink since we have an almost never-ending list of our to–do notes. Instead of completing tasks quickly, we tend to struggle and feel burned out by just the thought of the work pile. Time feels like an enemy since we have deadlines to meet and assignments to accomplish. After hours of sitting in front of our laptops, we barely finish one of them.

We all wish for a productive day, but why does it feel so hard to make? Maybe it was not the long hours we needed, but a shorter time to improve our focus. Perhaps we should try the Pomodoro Technique.

What is the Pomodoro Technique?

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management system created by an Italian university scholar, Francesco Cirillo in the late 1890s. This technique uses a timer to break down work into intervals. You divide your workday into 25 – minute chunks and five-minute breaks referred to as pomodoros. After four Pomodoro sessions, you take a lengthier pause of roughly 25 – 30 minutes. This method allows you to work with time, improve your focus, and have that sense of accomplishment. 

The Benefits of the Pomodoro Technique

There is no harm in trying. Whether you are a student, a working mom, or a procrastinator, this is best for you. If you plan to hop on this, these are the benefits you can expect (Shonna Waters, Ph.D.).

Makes tasks appear less complicated

With the help of time blocking, you may divide your chores into smaller, more manageable portions. Your tasks become less scary, which can help you feel less stressed about your workload. 

Increases the quality and quantity of output

It is amazing how much value you can put into a task when you know you only have 25 minutes to finish it. It becomes simpler to put in your best work right away rather than waiting until the very last minute when you are working inside the confines of your timer’s ring. 

Avoids mental fatigue

Pushing yourself to work hard and regularly for an extended period might lead to mental tiredness and exhaustion. By taking pauses, you can prevent burnout. Taking breaks enables more effective cognitive energy management and more equitable production distribution. 

Breaks the multitasking habit

Many of us lose focus and become disorganized when we attempt to multitask. In addition to making it difficult for you to focus, multitasking lowers the quality of work. When you use the technique, you will get to focus on one job with great quality. 

Improves focus and attention span

These days, our attention span is getting shorter and shorter. Using this method, you can work with shorter attention spans with a more focused mindset. 

Makes planning easier

If you take a day to complete a task, you work longer than required. The Pomodoro Technique allows you to plan your day better since the time limit ensures you work under the period allotted. Better planning equates to more time for yourself. 

Increases accountability

By listing the tasks and allotting a certain amount of time for each, you can view what needs to be done while managing yourself and your progress. 

Drives motivation

Having deadlines increases motivation. Knowing that you only have a 25-minute period boosts your will to get tasks done immediately. 

A lot of studies have proven the Pomodoro Technique’s effectiveness. Apart from setting the time for more refined work, it teaches you to be responsible and avoid distractions. The Pomodoro Technique is only one of the ways to survive in this world ruled by time and accomplishments.