MARKETERS TOOLBOX: Pomodoro

We all want to work more efficiently but often get distracted or side tracked. For my fellow marketing professionals who often juggle multiple deadlines, it is crucial to find a time management tool that will help you get things done fast– unless of course you enjoy working 12 hour work days! Time management is a challenge for many people but a tool like the Pomodoro Technique can help you get your work done and make sure you have plenty of time for yourself.

[expand title=”Click here to read more…”] The Pomodoro Technique was created in the 1980s by a man named Francesco Cirillo, who used his tomato shaped (hence the name Pomodoro) kitchen timer to track short periods of focused studying followed by frequent breaks to maximize his mental alertness. The essence of this technique is to conduct 25 minutes of continuous work without any interruptions on one specific task, followed by a 5 minute break. This 30 minute cycle is called a Pomodoro. After completing 4 such Pomodoro cycles, take a longer break for 15-30 minutes. To successfully implement this technique, follow these rules:

1. Create a “to-do” list every single day. Calculate how many Pomodoros each task will take. 2. Set the timer to 25 minutes and work uninterrupted for that time. Then take a 5 minute break ideally doing something active. Eliminate interruptions even if they are work related such as answering emails and phone calls if they are not urgent. 3. Track your process using a paper and a pencil. Put an “X” next to each Pomodoro cycle that you complete. 4. After working through 4 Pomodoro cycles, take a break for 15-30 minutes. 5. Work on one task at a time until it is complete.

Learn more about this technique here. [/expand]