Introduction
Many people are currently working from home and struggling with productivity. There are various techniques available to enhance productivity, and one of these techniques is the Pomodoro Technique. The creator named the technique after a kitchen timer in the shape of a tomato.
How does it work?
You set a timer for 25 minutes and during this period, you isolate yourself from any form of distraction. After 25 minutes, you take a 5-minute break to rest or grab a drink. Here's how this technique works:
- Choose a task that needs to be done;
- Set a kitchen timer for 25 minutes;
- Work on the task until the 25 minutes are up;
- At the end, mark the status of your task (ongoing, completed);
- Take a short break of five minutes (this marks the completion of one "Pomodoro");
- Repeat steps 1 to 5;
- After every four Pomodoros, take a longer break, such as 20 minutes or more.
Benefits of the Pomodoro Technique
- JYou work very concentrated and focused for a short period.
- It prevents procrastination.
- The time unit is easy to calculate.
- Your productivity gets a boost.
- For many people, 25 minutes is a nice block of time to work in.
How does the Pomodoro Technique work in vPlan?
In vPlan, you can break down large projects/activities into small incremental tasks, each assigned as an individual card. Your board provides a visual representation of how many tasks are completed and how many tasks you still have to go before you can take a short break.
Plan your tasks in vPlan, dividing them into different "Pomodoros". Use Labels to assign tasks to a Pomodoro. During the Pomodoros, focus on the tasks assigned.
Set the kitchen timer!
After being productive for the first 25 minutes with your tasks, update the status of your tasks.
Take a short break of five minutes. Stretch your legs, grab a glass of water, and quickly check your social accounts.
Now, get back to work with the next Pomodoro.
After four Pomodoros, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes. Establish structure and routine to make your day productive.
Give it a try. You'll notice your productivity soaring! Oh, and a kitchen timer isn't necessary; you can also use the timer on your mobile phone.