How to master any task using the Pomodoro Technique

Sometimes your task feels too complicated, and you don't know how to start, or the problem is your lack of motivation. Then you should consider using the Pomodoro Technique developed by Francesco Cirillo. It is a simple method to balance focus time with refreshing breaks and helps you be more productive in less time.

1. Write down your Tasks

Before starting the Pomodoro Technique, the first thing is to make a list of all tasks you need to accomplish. Organizing your tasks with a list can make everything more manageable and make you feel focused. Especially when you are self-employed or a student - nobody will write you a list. Defining tasks is your responsibility and helps you to know exactly what needs to be done. Also, it helps to prioritize the tasks and estimate the duration of each task, so you don't overload your daily working hours.

2. Set a 25-minute Timer (Do a Pomodoro)

After choosing one of your tasks, set a time for 25 minutes. While the timer is running, you should use this time to focus on your task. This means only on the task!

Mute your smartphone and put it away. Also, get rid of everything that might distract you. It is essential to be aware that this time is only for work, and it should feel like mediation. If you have the feeling you drift away, come back and focus on your task.

Sometimes, when it is hard for me to get into focus, I listen to lo-fi music for the 25 minute-duration, this helps me to get rid of other thoughts, and it is a nice transition when the interval is over.

3. Do a 5-min Break

After your timer goes on (or the music stops playing), stop doing your task and take a break.

In your break, you should recover from your work. Stand up, get some fresh air, make yourself a new drink or do some short stretching  -  use this time carefully and do not think about your current task.

Scrolling through your phone is not a good break.

4. Repeat this Cycle

Next, it is time to start with a new Pomodoro (25 minutes) and repeat this process of focus time and break.

After 4 Pomodoros, you should take a more extended break. Some people might say for 15 minutes, but I would recommend you to take as much time as you need and your schedule allows. Be honest to yourself and don't spend so much time on stupid things. You can determine what time is best for you and your schedule.

I personally start with this technique (25/5) at around 8 o'clock. After 4 Pomodoros, I do a 15–30-minute break. Then, I will repeat with four more Pomodoros and have some lunch afterward.

Besides, you can change your intervals. Another great interval is 50/10. So you study for 50 minutes and take a 10-minute break. After 2 Pomodoros (50min.), you can take a longer break.

5. Positive Effects of the Pomodoro Technique

For myself, I feel more productive and accomplish so much more. Without the Pomodoro technique, I often checked my phone, and the time was running so fast without achieving any of my listed tasks.

Furthermore, when the task seems too hard to accomplish   the Pomodoro technique will help you master any task because you changed your mindset from output-based to input-based.

For example, you said, "I need to write this really complex thesis" instead of doing this, you will now say, "I will work on my thesis for 25 minutes".

This is because the goal of writing a thesis is vague, and the following action isn't obvious. Splitting the time into intervals (Pomodoros), you reframed your task and made it less complicated , and know exactly what you need to do.

Thanks for reading this article. I hope you will try it out and have more time for yourself and accomplish more in less time.