The next few article in this series are all about Productivity Boosting Techniques. I have discussed a few like how decluttering gets you in the zone and the GTD or Get Things Done method of organizing all your tasks in one place. Here’s a fun productivity boosting technique that kind of involves…pasta!

Curious? Read on.

According to wikipedia “The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. The technique uses a timer to break down work into intervals, traditionally 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks. These intervals are named pomodoros, the plural in English of the Italian word pomodoro (tomato), after the tomato-shaped kitchen timer that Cirillo used as a university student. The method is based on the idea that frequent breaks can improve mental agility.”

A pomodoro is a sauce made from tomatoes which is typically served with pasta. Making the sauce involves a pomodoro kitchen timer. In this method, Francesco Cirillo used a pomodoro kitchen timer to develop the Pomodoro Technique. In this technique, one pomodoro is equal to the time interval spent working on a task. The main objective is to create a time period of intense focus and reduce procrastination.

Here’s how it is done:

1. Pick a task that requires your full undivided attention. – I know, I know. ALL of them require your undivided attention. But just pick one for now, ok?
2. Set a timer – The usual timeframe is for 25 minutes. That equals one pomodoro. You  set the timeframe needed for the task, so adjust accordingly. The timeframes can vary from 20 to 40 mins: more than that and you risk burning out. So aim to set short periods of time but work with intense concentration. The timer doesn’t have to be a tomato shaped kitchen timer. It could be any timer on your phone, on your watch, or you could use the pomodoro timer online here. There are also phone apps available.
3. Work on the task until the timer rings. – In a tracker, put a checkmark or anything that denotes that you have completed one pomodoro or one 25 minute interval
4. Take a 5 minute break – This is very important. Stop  what you’re doing when the timer rings. The break is meant to recharge you and reduce fatigue or burnout. So stretch, grab some coffee, get a snack, walk around. Take a break.
5. Set the timer again – Set the timer to one pomodoro. Like I’ve said earlier, you determine the length of one pomodoro. In this example, our pomodoro equals 25 minutes.
6. When you complete 4 intervals or have 4 checkmarks, take a longer break (Usually 15 to 30 mins) – Again, breaks are important. The longer break is meant to add to your sense of accomplishment. Usually, tasks are finished by this time.
7. Depending on how much more work is left, you can either repeat until you finish the task or move on to the next task.

I must confess, this is my favorite productivity boosting method. You can get into a zone of uninterrupted work and every break feels like a reward. It feels good to chip off blocks of work one pomodoro at a time. There are apps available in iOs and Google play for your phone, if you wish to try this method out.

Have you tried this technique out before? How did it work out? Share your experience with us in the comments! As always, remember to: Stay Humble, Hustle Hard.

Written by Jaie O.- The Help