Am I a procrastinator? No, I am not. However, I struggle to focus at times. Sometimes, I can’t concentrate, and I feel guilty about it. To address this, I have built routines to help me with my work. What helps me the most? The Pomodoro system.
I know — you’ve probably read many articles about the Pomodoro system. So here’s just a quick reminder: The Pomodoro Technique alternates 25-minute intervals of deep focus with 5-minute intervals of relaxation, making it a powerful time management strategy to boost productivity. I use this system almost every working day, and it has become a vital part of my routine.
How Did I Start with the Pomodoro System?
Some days are rough. I don’t want to get out of bed, train, work, or do anything else. I just want to exist and do nothing more. But work doesn’t wait. As someone who works remotely, I can’t binge Netflix all day. Sure, I could, but I don’t want to. Finding a great remote position is challenging, and I’m grateful for mine. This is why I aim to maintain consistent and productive work habits.
On those difficult days, I overcome procrastination by turning to the Pomodoro Technique. I stick to the basic version: 25 minutes of deep focus followed by a 5-minute break, a scientifically backed method to enhance focus and productivity. On better days, I upgrade the system to 40 minutes of focus with 10-minute breaks. During the relaxation intervals, I walk around the house, start my washing machine, or load the dishwasher.
The Pomodoro system works well for me because starting work for just 25 minutes feels manageable. And let’s face it — starting is often the hardest part of the workday, especially for me.
What Does the Pomodoro System Bring to Me?
- Improved productivity: It helps me focus deeply for manageable periods.
- Enhanced task tracking: The intervals make it easier to monitor progress.
- Better procrastination management: The structured approach reduces the urge to delay tasks.
Conclusion
The Pomodoro system is an excellent option for anyone struggling to concentrate during the workday. I’ve found it invaluable in maintaining focus, managing my workload effectively, and overcoming daily distractions. Try the Pomodoro Technique today to experience its benefits!
For anyone interested, I use the simple Flow application on my Mac desktop. It’s a small but powerful tool that keeps me on track.
[…] swear by the Pomodoro technique—25 minutes of work, followed by a 5-minute break. Five minutes might sound short, but it’s long […]