The Pomodoro Technique, so named for the tomato-shaped timer its creator used to track his own work schedule, is widely regarded as one of the best productivity techniques out there. That’s why I’ve recommended it many times in the past and why it regularly appears on best productivity methods lists. It’s simple: set a timer for 25 minutes and work on a task for that time, then take a five-minute break before resetting the timer and going back to work. After four 25-minute cycles, you get a longer break.
Does Pomodoro really work for flow? (thanks Huberman)
As beloved as it is, it doesn't work for everyone. But don't lose hope. You can adapt it to your needs, and you should!
The idea behind Pomodoro is a good one. In general, two factors really improve productivity: taking regular breaks and diving into focused, deep work on one task without trying to do a bunch of other things at the same time. Because focused work and breaks are built into the technique, it can really push you to get a lot done in those 25-minute bursts, whether you’re working on a work project, cleaning the house, or answering emails.
For some, it’s easier to get into the “deep work” zone than it is for others, which is why Pomodoro enthusiasts sometimes report that 25 minutes just isn’t enough. In other cases, 25 minutes can be too long to complete simple tasks, leaving you distracted. Just because something is considered the gold standard doesn’t mean it will work at gold-medal levels for everyone.
