Tomatoes and Productivity

I am easily distracted. Squirrel! I decided to try a simple productivity tool called “The Pomodoro Technique.” It is called this because the inventor, Francesco Cirillo, used a tomato-shaped timer to track his work as a university student and the Italian word for tomato is pomodoro.

The technique is simple. Use a timer. I downloaded a free Pomodoro app.

Here’s the 5 steps in The Pomodoro Technique:

1. Choose an important task.

2. Set the timer for 25 minutes. This is called a Pomodoro.

3. Focus on the work without being distracted until the timer sounds.

4. Take a 5 minute break to relax, stretch, move, get some water, check texts, etc.

5. After 4 Pomodoros (four 25-minute work periods separated by 5-minute breaks) take a longer break of 15-30 minutes.

While this sounds easy. The difficult part is to not get distracted during each 25-minute Pomodoro. If you are distracted by a call, text, person, etc. you either end the Pomodoro there or postpone the distraction until the Pomodoro is complete.

Postponing the distraction could be as simple as saying “I’m in the middle of something, can I get back to you in ten minutes?” or writing it down to work on later.

Choosing what to work on is most important. Select tasks that are important and will help you achieve your goals. Working in concentrated blocks with breaks allows you to accomplish important tasks in your strategic plan, life plan or retirement lifestyle plan.

It sounds simple, but I was more productive by using this method. I recommend you try it!

Want to talk about increasing your productivity? Want to become a more strategic leader?

Want more information on strategic planning, life planning or planning for your retirement?

Contact me at Valerie.MacLeod@HainesCentre.com