How to Use the Pomodoro Technique as a Freelancer
While it’s always beneficial to be productive at work, it’s especially important as a freelancer, as your income often depends on how many projects you can take on.
The Pomodoro technique is a popular time management system designed to increase focus and productivity while completing work-related tasks. Read on to learn more about it and how to use it as a freelancer.
What Is the Pomodoro Technique?
The Pomodoro technique is a time management method created in the 1980s by Francesco Cirillo. The method is named after the Italian word for tomato because of the tomato-shaped kitchen timer Cirillo used to time his university tasks.
This technique involves deciding to work on a specific task, setting a timer for 25 minutes, working until the timer rings, and then taking a short break (5–10 minutes). The goal is to increase focus and productivity during the 25-minute intervals by concentrating entirely on one task during that time without interruptions.
Any outside distraction that pops up (such as a text or an email) should be noted and returned to later. After four pomodoros (a total of two hours), it’s recommended to take a longer 15–30-minute break to rest and refocus.
The Benefits of the Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro technique could work for you if you get easily sidetracked by small distractions throughout the workday or consistently work past the point of productivity. It can be especially helpful when working on large projects or time-consuming research. And since freelancers typically work for themselves, it can help you set achievable goals and reward yourself for progress.
For many people, getting started on a task is the hardest part, particularly if you work from home. The Pomodoro technique breaks longer tasks into more manageable chunks so getting started doesn’t seem so overwhelming. The time limit rules are flexible, however, such as when you have meetings that last more than 25 minutes.
Making the Most of Breaks
Taking regular breaks is an important part of the Pomodoro technique. Frequent breaks can help you to maximize productivity, increase focus, and prevent burnout. While working less to work better sounds counterintuitive, you’re actually more productive when racing against the clock to complete a task, and it helps to have the motivation of a break coming up.
Make the most of your breaks by getting some physical activity, such as playing with your pet, stretching, or going for a short walk. You can even accomplish some minor household tasks, such as tidying your home office. Avoid activities like mindlessly scrolling through social media during your breaks, though, as this can cause eye strain and is difficult to pull away from after just five minutes.
Ultimately, what you choose to do during your break is up to you, but ideally, you should be taking a rest from staring at a screen and using a different part of your brain.
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