WHY you need to learn about this technique no matter what industry you are in!
I struggled to say the name too…don’t worry. We can call it the “tomato technique” because of the logo and still be on the same page. Awhile back, this method was introduced to me by a couple of friends (whom are married) who both work desk jobs. I thought it was an interesting concept, but it didn’t stick in my head because (1) I struggle to pronounce the name (2) I don’t have a desk job. Well let me catch you up and introduce to you this great technique.
As you might have figured out I’m working to have more of an online presence for many reasons (we will save that for different post). And if you have ever met me I’m pretty spastic with a side of (self diagnosed) ADD. Which means sitting at a computer is darn near impossible most days. There have been many days where I will sit at my home desk and be “busy” but at the end of the day I really haven’t accomplished much that will move me closer to my goal. With this being an on going frustration (with myself) might explain why this randomly popped into my head last Friday during Taco Friday. So I went into 20 question mode with my friends (lucky them). Let me explain how this technique works.
The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that can be used for any kind of task. You can read about it in great scientific detail with THIS PDF. There is also a cheat sheet version HERE. BUT if you want the even shorter version, keep reading :). Lets say you have a list of task to complete or just a long day of busy/computer work. Make your To-do-list and start your/a pomodoro timer.
1 pomodoro = 25 mins work followed by a 5min rest
After 4 pomodoros (2 hrs), take a 15min break
Simple. You work on that task for 25mins then you take a 5min break. HOWEVER during the work time you focus and work. This means, I put down my phone/social media and focus 100% on the task I want to complete. After 25mins I can check my phone, social media feeds, stand up, potty, get more coffee, snacks, etc. Then when the timer alerts me that 5mins is up, I’m back to work for another 25mins. Knowing that I’m going to get a break keeps me 100% focused during that 25mins of work. Genius!
The cool thing is, this “tomato technique” can be used for things outside of computer work. Organizing closets, housework, yard work…I could go on and on but you get the point. There are a couple of different ways to set these timers.
- Alexa. Since I have a dot in most rooms of my house, I ask her to set me a timer as soon as one goes off I ask her to set the next one.
- Iphone App. This FREE app would be helpful if you are out doing yard work.
- Mac App. I downloaded this FREE app for my mac and it works great.
I encourage you to give it a try next time you have a long to-do list or a long day at the desk. Enjoy!
