It seems that the faster we run around to get things done, the faster the world spins around us and demands more of our limited time.
The more we turn our wheels, the harder it becomes to focus on the task at hand. Thankfully, there is a low-tech, free tool available to give us a hand. It is called the Pomodoro Technique. What is the Pomodoro Technique? Here is the explanation from the website:
The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method created by Francesco Cirillo in the 1980s. It can be used for any kind of task and enables you to view time as a valuable ally in accomplishing what you want to do.
The technique uses a timer to break down periods of work into 25-minute intervals (referred to as “pomodoros”) separated by breaks. It’s based on the idea that frequent breaks can improve mental agility.
There are five basic steps to implementing the technique:
-Decide on the task to be done.
-Set the pomodoro (timer) to 25 minutes.
-Work on the task until the timer rings, and record the task status.
-Take a short break (5 minutes).
-After every four “pomodoros,” take a longer break (15-20 minutes).
You can either use a simple cooking timer for setting the time intervals or you can go to this website to download a simple and free digital version to download for your computer (there is both a Mac and a PC version):
http://www.focusboosterapp.com
If the Pomodoro Technique can help you get just one extra task done, maybe you can devote that time to what is really important in your life.