Hey folks, here is another blog based on a video I previously posted on how to use a quick and easy time-management tool called The Pomodoro Technique to create more “margin” and productivity in your business, personal, . . . and guitar life.
The word “Pomodoro” means “tomato” in Italian. Francesco Cirillo—the inventor—named the technique after a tomato-shaped kitchen timer he used when developing it. You’ve heard me mention it several times before in both the hangout and my Blog article mentioned above, so now you too can enjoy the benefits of taking control of your life and your most precious asset: your TIME!
As you may know from some of the goals I mentioned for the year 2014, mastering time management is one of my top priorities this year. So I’ve been using the Pomodoro Technique as a means to help me do just that. It hasn’t been easy because there are plenty of distractions in my everyday schedule. The Pomodoro Technique helps eliminate distractions with the aid of keeping a pen & paper/notepad on your desk at all times. But that’s easier said than done, it turns out.
The Basics of The Pomodoro Technique
What is a Pomodoro then? A Pomodoro is a simple 25 minute interval. Here’s how it breaks down as stated on the official website:
1. CHOOSE A TASK YOU’D LIKE TO GET DONE
2. SET THE POMODORO (TIMER) FOR 25 MINUTES
3. WORK ON THE TASK UNTIL THE POMODORO RINGS
4. WHEN THE POMODORO RINGS, PUT A CHECKMARK ON A PAPER
5. TAKE A SHORT BREAK (5 MINUTES)
6. EVERY 4 POMODOROS, TAKE A LONGER BREAK (20-30 MINUTES)
I’ve found myself “falling off the wagon” once or twice while trying to practice The Pomodoro Technique. As I stated in the video mentioned earlier, the technique works . . . if you work it! This being said, you must be dedicated to developing new habits in order for this technique to work. Stick with it and it will pay off!
Here are some of the sheets you can get from their site to help keep track of the time:
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There are many other things The Pomodoro Technique consists of; I’ve just scratched the surface here. Be sure to head on over to their website and see for yourself how you too can manage your time more effectively.
Resources Mentioned in the Video
Official Pomodoro Technique site
“How to Create More Margin in Your Life” by Michael Hyatt
“How to Use Batching to Become More Productive” by Michael Hyatt (Includes an overview of the Pomodoro Technique)
“The 48 Minute Empower Hour” by John Richardson (an alternative to the Pomodoro Technique)