Boosting Productivity With the Pomodoro Method

Everyone has been in the position where they can feel their productivity level lag. For you, maybe this happens in the afternoon and after lunch, when you begin to dream about going home. For others productivity might not pick up until mid-morning. However, trying the Pomodoro Method within your business could result in an increased productivity level. Continue reading for more information on the Pomodoro Method and how it can help your business.

What is the Pomodoro Method?

The Pomodoro Method is a way of working that is supposed to optimize how a worker spends their time on certain tasks. This method was created back in the 1980's by an Italian man named Francesco Cirillo. Cirillo emphasizes the importance of planning a task, tracking your progress, recording how well you have done, processing this, and then visualizing the next step. The entire process was created to increase mental agility, keep the mind focused, and reduce procrastination. "Pomodoro" means "tomato" in Italian, and this name was chosen because of the tomato-shaped timer Cirillo used.

The Five Steps Involved

First, an individual must plan their task, which involves deciding which task they are going to do. This step is particularly useful for a business, as it forces all workers to prioritize different tasks. Second, the worker tracks himself, which is done by setting a timer for 25 minutes. During this step, a worker must concentrate on a single task for the full 25 minutes; the timer should be counting down in front of him. The employer will work until the timer rings and then, he will record his progress with a big cross or check mark. This is a way of letting the employer know he has finished a task, and this should be a motivating factor. Fourth, the worker gets a short break. For each 25-minute period of work, an employer gets a short break of 3 to 5 minutes. The fifth step of the Pomodoro Method is that after four 25-minute intervals of work, a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes is allowed.

The Effect of Working this Way

If you've found productivity isn't where it should be in your office, give this method of working a chance. The effects of the Pomodoro Method have been largely positive. Because an individual works in such short intervals, the worker's mind is able to stay fresh and focused, and the impact of external interruptions is reduced. Additionally, the 25-minute intervals help workers avoid frustration; if a worker can't finish a task or finds it difficult, then they will take a break before continuing. Finally, it is easier for a worker to avoid fatigue when working in short bursts. All of these effects will benefit a business and contribute to how well a business works. In order to fully master the Pomodoro Method, a worker should stick to it for 7 and 20 days. That being said, this method of working is not for everyone. Within your business, your employees should know how they work best. Working with a timer might not appeal to every employee, so respect that there are a variety of different working and learning styles.