We tried The Pomodoro Technique

In a buzzing workplace like Mzuri, there’s always something happening, from a new client request to another email to read. Sometimes it feels like you’re working against the clock to get everything done and it’s easy to get into a pattern of letting all of your thoughts get on top of you, from that blog post that needs writing, that meeting at 4pm or the food shop after work. This is something I think we can all relate to and we all have our own ways of tuning out and getting down to the task at hand.  With this in mind we thought we’d share our latest method with you! Over the last couple of weeks, a few of us in the office have been trialing The Pomodoro Technique.

The Pomodoro method is a time management system that teaches you to work with time instead of struggling against it. The idea is that you work solidly focusing on a single task for 25 minutes and then take a 5 minute break once that time is up (it works best if you literally set a timer and work with the clock). The technique encourages you to manage your distractions by writing any thoughts or idea down in a notepad, and then continuing with the rest of your Pomodoro. The 5 minute break ensures that you give yourself time to unwind and reset your thoughts so that you don’t burnout and feel too overworked. The Pomodoro Technique recommends that you send this time on a 5 minute walk around the office or making a cup of tea – just nothing work-related for that period of time. Once you get really good at this method, you can start to work out how many Pomodoros it takes to complete a task and set yourself goals. For example, can I achieve writing a blog post in 3 Pomodoros?

So how did we get on?

Minty, Marketing Assistant

“It’s definitely a lot more challenging than it looks! Especially when the phone is ringing, another email had come in or there’s a new social media update. I’d recommend just letting a few of your colleagues around you know that you’re in the middle of a Pomodoro so as not to disturb you or cover your phone duties. I found the method worked best when applied to bigger tasks when your concentration is more likely to waver, such as copywriting, proofreading or creating an email campaign. Overall, I would definitely recommend it. 25 minutes is a good amount of time to aim to focus for. I found myself to be a lot more productive during those time periods and the breaks allow you to take a moment so that you really don’t feel overworked, but rather satisfied in what you’ve achieved.”

Visit the website to find out more information about The Pomodoro Technique, the book and time management courses on offer.

http://pomodorotechnique.com/