The Pomodoro Technique: A Simple Time Game To Help You Focus When You Can’t

Origin of the Pomodoro Technique is from a Pomodoro i.e. tomato-shaped timer

Whether you are a creative mind, techie or a number-person, succumbing to distractions and struggling to finish tasks on time is something most professionals have to deal with. Combine this with fatigue induced by prolonged work from home, and you have a vicious cycle of procrastination and avoidance at hand. How to beat this, though?

The answer is a simple time-management method called, the Pomodoro Technique. Let us explain. When you have a pile of chores or a really big project, this method suggests dedicating short, focussed sessions to individual tasks. Basically, divide and conquer to make the best use of the limited time!

Origin of the Pomodoro Technique

Pomodoro is Italian for tomato. And the origin of the Pomodoro Technique – a time-management method that millions across the world abide by – is from (believe it or not) a Pomodoro i.e. tomato-shaped timer. 

In the late 1980s, Francesco Cirillo, unable to focus on his studies and complete his assignments, decided to try something new. He committed himself to 25-mins-long focussed study sessions. To measure these sessions, University-going Cirillo used a kitchen timer in the shape of a tomato. And that’s how the Pomodoro Technique was born. 

But is the Pomodoro Technique really for me? 

There’s a reason why the Pomodoro Technique is so widely popular amongst everyone. It’s partially rooted in the simplicity of this time-management method.

• It helps you break down complex tasks into smaller chores
• The method gives you actionable insight into what’s doable and what’s not
• Most importantly, it helps you work with the limited time in hand

The Pomodoro Technique’s biggest merit lies in its effectiveness. And the fact that it’s deceptively easy to get started with and seriously effective when it comes to beating procrastination. 

Many believe that procrastination stems from laziness or a lack of self-control. Research suggests otherwise. Procrastination is directly related to avoidance of negative feelings associated with an arduous task. When you break this big, monstrous task into a small and easy first chore, however, you make progress. 

When you should try this time-management method?

Given the wide popularity of the Pomodoro Technique, it’s actually worth a shot if:

• You are unable to concentrate on a particular task or too distracted to focus
• You are dealing with this one thing that plagues most professionals – procrastination 
• Your work spills over to after-work hours 
• You want to get a lot done in a day but need a more realistic plan
• You are feeling fatigued, overwhelmed or demotivated

Or if you just need a hard reset for your daily routine! Remember all you need to do is, just take it one pomodoro at a time.

Liked what you read? Head to Life at BYJU’S to learn more about the stories that make us unique. To explore job opportunities, check out Careers at BYJU’S.