Need More Time? Pomodoro!
I'm continuing my quest to share various time optimization techniques for Loving Leaders, adding today to the ones we've explored so far:
Today's technique is the perfect way to harness your energetic optimism for getting things done at the start of a new week. (I HOPE you are refreshed and have some uplifting determination. But if you are struggling, this technique can help too!)
The Pomodoro Technique was developed in the 1980s by university student, Francesco Cirillo. The name comes from the Italian word for “tomato” in honor of the tomato-shaped kitchen timer Cirillo originally used. In this approach, you identify a project or body of work, set the timer for 25 minutes, do the work, stop when the timer rings, take a 5-minute break, and then repeat. These rounds can be strung together for multiple cycles, with a longer break after several rounds. And like anything today, there are more tools, rules, and apps if you want them. But don't get too hung up on all that. Just try the basic practice and see
I first learned the Pomodoro Technique from a Lean mentor who championed its benefits. Recently, I was reminded of it again by a coach I'm working with who advocates for music to accompany your focus too. I'm deploying the Pomodoro Technique as part of my programs now. In fact, you may recognize this as part of our AppreciationPalooza and its follow-up. And honestly, this approach is making a huge difference in my focus and flow in writing my book.
Here's another thing: It is not just useful for big, creative projects or strategic work. It can also help with day-to-day business administrivia. I can easily get sucked in for hours. But with this approach, I more efficiently get things done for a set time, and then I stop when the timer rings.
Like a similar practice of timeboxing, Pomodoro rounds support a sense of accomplishment and bring a gamified, fun energy to our work.
I started today listing my priorities and the time for each including projects and team care. Yes, there's more than I can do, but by doing several Pomodoro rounds of what's most important first, I've already completed the most crucial things. Yay! And I included in my list eating, exercising, gardening, and yes email too. I'm on my way to having a healthy, balanced day and getting the right stuff done.
Why are we talking about this? Because Loving Leadership needs to be practical. We face real-world challenges. We need real-world solutions. This one is about as concrete as it gets! Give it a try:
Put on a timer, do work with flow and focus, stop, and take a break. Do it again. Get more of the right stuff done including caring for people on your team.
Let me know how it goes for you!
