Whether you are a busy mom, an overwhelmed career woman, or some mixture of in between you’ve likely searched for ways to squeeze more productivity out of every day.
If so, you’re not alone!
In today’s society, it seems like we are always expected to do more with less time. While I wholeheartedly believe we should be constantly working to do less in less time, I recognize that there are time when we need to buckle down and do deep work and there are definitely ways to make the most of the time that you have.
One popular method is known as the Pomodoro Technique. It’s a time management method that can help you get more done in less time. This blog post will give you a quick overview of this efficient building technique!
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What are the five steps to the Pomodoro technique?
The Pomodoro technique is a time management method that was created by Francesco Cirillo in the 1980s. The name Pomodoro comes from the Italian word for “tomato” because Cirillo used a tomato-shaped kitchen timer to track his work.
This technique is based on the theory that if we break down our work into smaller chunks and take intentional breaks we can ultimately get more done!
The beauty of this technique is in its simplicity! It requires only 5 steps!
- Create a to-do list and grab a timer
- Set the timer for 25 minutes and work on a single task until the timer runs out.
- When the session (Pomodoro) ends, tally a single Pomodoro and check completed tasks
- Enjoy a 5-minute break
- Complete this for 4 cycles then take a longer more restful break.
It’s that simple!
Also see: 12 Unique Productivity Tips for Working Moms to Get More Done and Boost Your Productivity
Does the Pomodoro technique work?
So, you may be wondering if this technique really works. As a working mom with an out of the home career, having simple methods for creating sustainable schedules is so key for getting more done!
The Pomodoro is one such technique that not only helps me in my business, but also in the many tasks that take up time around the home, from cleaning and cooking to other creative pursuits.
Using this method with my meal prepping saves loads of time, and creating simple cleaning routines is a breeze by simply cleaning in Pomodoro’s.
This technique goes beyond just getting more done! In fact, many benefits come with using the Pomodoro Technique.
Some of these benefits include:
- Improved focus and concentration
- Increased productivity
- More effective time management
- Reduced stress levels
If you struggle with any of those things, then I highly recommend giving this technique a try!
Tired of feeling like you have to do it all??
Then the 4-Day Purposeful Productivity Challenge is the perfect resource to help you quickly streamline your days and create more time for the people that matter
This quick action 4-day Challenge helps you leverage the productivity skills you already possess, gain more control of your todo list, and create at least 1 hour of free time each day!
4 tips for accomplishing more with the Pomodoro technique
Now that you know what the Pomodoro Technique is and how it works, you may be wondering how you can get started using it in your own life. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
1. Be sure to use a timer
I am guilty of trying to pomodoro without a timer and it just doesn’t work as well! It’s nearly impossible to be productive when you are consistently watching the clock and timing in your head.
Use a timer and position it so that you cannot see the time. Your cell phone, computer or physical timer all work.
There are also some programs and apps that incorporate your breaks so that you do not have to worry about resetting the timer.
The sense of urgency and knowledge that a break is coming go a long way to getting more done.
2. Experiment with different time intervals
Some people favor working for 25 minutes and then resting for five minutes, while others might prefer 50 minutes of work with 10-minute breaks.
Test out different methods to see what works best for you – it might depend on the activity too. Shorter or longer intervals could be better suited for certain tasks.
3. Don’t skip the long break every 2 hours
One of the biggest mistakes that can be made when using the Pomodoro Technique is to skip the breaks.
This will only lead to burnout and will be counter-productive in the long run.
It is essential to take a break after every 4 Pomodoros (sessions) to give your mind a chance to rest. This goes for both the 5-minute breaks and the longer 20-minute ones.
If you are experimenting with intervals make sure that a long break is scheduled every 2 hours.
One thing that has helped me tremendously has been to have a preplanned list of relaxing activities that are both 5 and 15-30 minutes long. These calming tasks are things I enjoy and I can easily incorporate into a day of Pomodoro’s.
4. Avoid distractions
This may be the most difficult task of all when trying to increase productivity.
When you are working on a task, it is so important to avoid any and all distractions! This means putting away your phone, closing any tabs that are not related to your task and really focusing on the work at hand.
Also see: 12 Powerful Scriptures on Focus to help you Overcome Everyday Distractions
Looking for more tips on time management? Check out all of our productivity resources
5. Set realistic goals for each pomodoro
If you try to accomplish too much during each pomodoro, you will likely end up feeling overwhelmed and stressed.
Start with smaller goals and work your way up. By chunking down your tasks into manageable pieces, you will be more likely to complete them and feel good about your progress. Blocking like tasks together when you create your to-do list can help with feeling accomplished in each Pomodoro.
Be intentional about getting productive
If you’re looking for a time management technique that will help you focus and get more done in less time, the Pomodoro Technique is definitely worth a try.
Most people find it highly effective and reach the end of the day feeling much more refreshed than usual. It can also work wonders at home – set your timer and see how much housework you can get done in 25 minutes. Your children can use the technique for homework and studying. You’ll find that you can accomplish much more in 25 minutes than you ever thought possible.
So take the Pomodoro Technique for a test-run and see just how much you can get done each day!
Are you a working mom in need of community? Join us on Instagram to connect with other moms who are using this time management strategy to achieve balance in their lives.