I’m a procrastinator. Always have been. If you’re looking for proof, the fact that this particular blog post has been on my to-do list for three weeks should be evidence enough.
The reasons are varied. I’m an overthinker. I easily fall down rabbit holes in the process of research. And I just don’t like doing things I don’t want to do.
But I’m also an adult with a job to do and goals to accomplish. And I have found a productivity technique that has been game changing for me. It just might help you out, too: the Pomodoro Technique.
The Pomodoro Technique is nothing new. In fact, it’s been around for nearly four decades. Created by Francesco Cirillo, a college student at the time, the Pomodoro Technique is incredibly simple and as easy as setting a timer…a tomato-shaped timer if you want the full pomodoro effect.
How it Works
Select a specific task to complete that requires your full attention. In my world, it works especially well for content creation.
Set a timer for 25 minutes (this is called one pomodoro).
Work solely on that task until the timer goes off.
Take a 5 minute break and step away from the task.
Continue in 25 minute increments until the task is complete.
One caveat: in order to truly benefit, you have to eliminate distractions. For me, this means putting my phone on airplane mode so I’m not tempted to look at the texts, Snapchats, and emails that frequently pop up.
Why it Works
Tasks feel more manageable. Realistically, I can do anything for 25 minutes. The 5 minute breaks give me time to grab another cup of coffee, make a pit stop, or even step outside for a breath of fresh air.
The timer creates a sense of urgency. What we know as Parkinson's Law rings true: “It is a commonplace observation that work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion.” My brain will take as much time as I give it to complete a task, whether that is 25 minutes or half the day.
Each pomodoro creates a record of my time. As I record what I accomplish in each pomodoro, I am discovering how long specific tasks actually take, making it easier to plan my days for optimum productivity
It can be done from anywhere. Just pop in some earbuds, put on your favorite deep focus playlist (I like this one) and get to it.
It’s just so simple. I began using the technique the very same day that I read about it. No fancy tech or supplies needed. Set a timer on your phone or use this free online timer.
If you’d like to take a deep dive into the Pomodoro Technique, check out a copy of Francesco Cirillo’s book, or dig into this article for more detailed do’s and don’ts.
Let me know how it works for you. With a little consistency and freedom from distraction, you’ll be crushing your productivity goals in no time.
And for the record, this blog post that I put off for three weeks took just 3 Pomodoros to complete. Now on to the next task!