After experimenting with every productivity technique you could mention (and probably a handful you couldn’t) one has shown itself to be worth its weight in gold.
And not just for me. This technique has transformed the work ethic of every single person, man, woman and child I’ve taught it to. I’ve never seen anything that works as good. If you have the self discipline to use it expect huge returns.
It’s called the Pomodoro Technique. Crazy name, I know, but what’s in a name? What we’re interested in is real world results and that’s exactly what this technique will give you.
What is the Pomodoro Technique?
The technique is a time management tool that not only helps you get more done quickly, it does it in a way that makes sure you are kept fresh and full of energy. This means you not only get more done, but you also get what you’re doing done BETTER.
It’s easy to apply and use. If you have self discipline enough to use it.
Which you are going to force yourself to have, if necessary, aren’t you?
Here’s how it works:
Decide What You Need to Do. The Pomodoro
Technique is something you apply to work projects. The first step towards using it is figuring out what project you are working on.
You Set a Clock or Watch for 25 Minutes. The choice of what you use is yours. There’s even websites that will serve the purpose. Personally, I use an inexpensive plastic kitchen timer. Mine cost me just over a dollar.
Set your clock for 25 minutes and get to work.
It Rings You Take a Five Minute Break. When the timer rings you stop what you doing and take a break for five minutes. It’s important you have the self discipline to follow this schedule as precisely as possible.
Reset the Clock for 25 Minutes and Get Back to Work. You repeat the 25 minute work, five minute rest schedule three more times. This is a total of four “sets”.
After Four Sets you Take a Longer Break. When you’ve completed four sets take a twenty or twenty five minute break. This gives you time to have a snack, go to the bathroom, etc.
Repeat until all the days projects are completed, or it’s time to leave work.
Now this may sound simple, but most of the things that work best in life are, so embrace its simplicity.
As long as you follow it strictly you will find yourself a real powerful force in getting things done. And the more you use it, the more momentum you will build. Success breeds success.
The whole point is to not let yourself fall into the trap of trying to work while distracted. Even the Pomodoro Technique will fail you, if you don’t take it (and yourself) seriously. This is what having self discipline is all about, after all!