I learned about several time management techniques during the NAPO 2011 presentation given by Emily Wilksa. Each of them have principles that I like and things I’m not so sure about…but one of them really stood out for me – The Pomodoro Technique.

Here’s why:

1. This technique is based around using a timer. I LOVE using timers! They keep you on track or release you from a task. Simple and easy, right?

2. I think it’s pretty cool that this method was created around a tomato-shaped timer. Productivity and food mixing nicely together…two of my favorite things. ;)

3.  It was created by a student to help (himself and) other students who struggled with studying. As a former teacher, this made my heart sing. =)

4. It lets you work in 25-minute time blocks. Sounds doable, yes?

Ok, so here’s where it goes off-kilter for me… If you interrupt that 25-minute block of time for any reason, you have to start all over. So, let’s say you’ve been a productive powerhouse for 24.5 minutes and then you take a bathroom break, that means all that productivity is null and void. Huh?

That doesn’t sit well with me…seems a bit rigid…but I love the basic concept. So, I say let’s run with that. Get a timer, set it for 25 minutes (or more if you’re feeling motivated), and get down to business. When it goes off, you can take a break (another Pomodoro principle) or tackle something on your to do list.

Yesterday, I mentioned that I’m a fan of ”cherry picking,” but if you like using the Pomodoro Technique in the strictest sense, please leave a comment and explain how it works for you. In the meantime, check out Pomodoro Technique Illustrated: Can You Focus – Really Focus – for 25 Minutes?