When you work from home, you can often get too focused on a project and find yourself spending all day stressing out over it; and to make matters worse, sit down for long periods of time trying to hash it out. Sure, you may have completed a number of projects, but likely there remains more to get done. To make matters worse, you probably noticed your productivity decreasing as you worked. One way to improve your overall productivity is to try out the “Pomodoro Technique”. Install this new habit by pairing it with a trigger. That trigger could be a trip to get some cold water from the water dispenser provided by a home water delivery service in Atlanta. Not only will you regain your focus by adding movement, but by drinking water and staying hydrated, you can increase productivity.
What is the Pomodoro Technique?
In the early 1990s, Francesco Cirillo invented the Pomodoro Technique after using a tomato-shaped timer to track his school work. The theory is that any large task can be broken down into short timed intervals (also known as Pomodoros) followed by breaks. This method trains your brain into focusing for short periods of time and keeps you on top of all deadlines. As your brain gets used to the technique, you’ll find that your attention span and concentration will improve over time.
How It Works?
All you need for the Pomodoro Technique is a timer. You can use the one on your phone or you can buy one to keep at your desk. Here are the 5 steps on how to get started:
- Choose your tasks.
- Set the timer to 25 minutes.
- Avoid constantly checking the time remaining on the timer.
- When the timer goes off, take a 5 minute break away from the work area.
- After 4 cycles, take a longer break
The longer break usually varies from 15-30 minutes, but ultimately, it’s up to what makes you feel recharged. If you repeat this process throughout the day, you’ll get a lot of work done, while simultaneously keeping your water bottle full.
The key during your Pomodoro is to limit distractions. Focus on the task at hand. The 25 minutes must be used for intense focus. You can’t get distracted with talking to coworkers or meetings. If you do, you’ll need to end the Pomodoro immediately or postpone the distraction until the timer goes off.
If someone tries to interrupt you:
- Inform them that you are in the middle of something.
- Negotiate a time at which you can get back to them.
- Schedule a follow-up time.
- Call them back when your Pomodoro is complete.
Who Does the Technique Work Best For?
The technique is often used for people who produce creative work that must be reviewed. However, it can be used for anyone who has a queue or to-do list. Set a timer and start working until the timer goes off, take a short break, set the timer again and work, break, and continue until the fourth Pomodoro is complete. With that being said, if you’re making headway and the timer goes off, you can continue to work and take a break when you wish. The ultimate goal is to get you in the zone and focus, as breaks are seen as important for productivity.
Now that you have the tools and information to get started with the Pomodoro Technique, you can give it a try. Start the timer, begin work, take a break to the water station, set the timer again, begin work once more, and repeat.
Drinking water in the workplace is critical for productivity and keeping your mind sharp. Your boss will be impressed by your increase in productivity, and have the PomodoroTechnique to thank. Contact us today to start your free, no obligation, two-week trial.