Have you ever noticed that you seem to be able to focus on something when the deadline for it is looming near? It’s like when the clock is ticking, your mind swings into high gear and you are able to stay on track until the project is completed.
What if you could put yourself into that place where your mind hones in on just that project and where your focus is like a laser anytime you wanted to?
There are tools and tricks you can use, and one I find helpful is the Pomodoro Method. It’s simple and effective. You’ll work in intervals of time (pomodoros, usually 25 minutes. The thing is, you’ll take breaks in between those. And you need to take those, not just work through them. The pattern goes like this: 1 Pomodoro, 5-minute break, 1 Pomodoro, 5-minute break, 1 Pomodoro, 5-minute break, 1 Pomodoro, 15 minute break. Start over.
When you become intentional about using the time you’re given each day in the best way possible, you’ll move from dreaming about finishing to being finished and moving on to the next project.
Write your task list and grab a timer. You can use your phone (though my suggestion is that it’s not even in the same room you’re in) or a basic kitchen timer. There are some great timers just made for this focus method:
- Here’s a basic tomato timer like the one Francesco Cirillo used when he developed the technique.
- A cool easy-to-read timer that will stand anywhere.
- If metal is more your thing, this timer is for you.
- Don’t shake this die, it’s your timer!
- And finally, an ultra-cool timer, designed to help you increase productivity in all areas of your life.
Now it’s time to put this knowledge into action. Set your timer for 25 minutes and stay on task. When that first five minute break comes up, stand up, think about what you’ve gotten done and DANCE! It doesn’t matter how pretty that dance is, it’s time to celebrate and prepare for the next 25-minute sprint.
Ready? Let’s do this!
Full disclosure: the links above will take you to Amazon and if you purchase using them, I’ll get a few pennies commission. I am not recommending these timers based on experience, only on a quick search to show you what’s available.
