Believe it or not, I actually hate productivity hacks. But, the pomodoro technique may have converted me. Working from home can be very tricky, and it’s very easy to get distracted when you’re surrounded by the things that make you comfortable (for example, your bed). Work days can feel longer, and it can be harder to focus on tasks that you would otherwise finish in less than an hour. This is why the pomodoro technique is a great addition to your work day. 

I tested it out last week and I actually got so much work done that I would’ve otherwise procrastinated on. This time management method can do wonders when you’re crunched for a deadline or simply wanting to be more productive. 

So, what is it?

The pomodoro technique is a method for time management that helps you work with the time you actually have. This method requires you to break your workday into 25-minute chunks, with five-minute breaks sandwiched in between. These intervals are called pomodoros. Now here’s the trick: after about four pomodoros, you take a longer break of 15 to 20 minutes. This is how you secure intervals of intense focus. I found that putting your phone away, and limiting distractions helps with securing these stretches of long focus.

In order to make this the most productive, it is essential that you time these down to the minute. The idea behind the technique is that the timer creates a sense of urgency, so you are more inclined to finish the task at hand.. The forced breaks (and you have to take them) help cure your frazzled feeling, that way you are less prone to burnout.

This is the gist of it, I really found this technique to be useful with time management and especially working from home.