How I Learned to Focus - Pomodoro Technique

Do you listen to music when you work or study?

I used to be a music listener not only when I was exercising or doing household chores but also when I was working. However, a few months ago, I realized that might not be a good idea.

The experts suggest that to achieve your most focused state, you should avoid multitasking. Instead, focus on one task and immerse yourself in it. Even listening to your favorite music while working can distract you from fully concentrating on your task.

Today, I am going to share how I became more focused and productive after learning this techquie called Pomodoro technique. I will also let you know what focus app I use when I do my work.

Pomodoro Technique:

Do you agree that one of the worst feelings is when you've spent so much time trying to do your work, only to realize you haven't accomplished much?

Feeling unmotivated or uncreative is disheartening. I used to think this was as much as I could do.

I didn't realize this was something I could improve: finding better ways to focus and be more productive within the same amount of time.

I suggest trying the Pomodoro Technique. With this method, you choose one task to complete, set a timer for 25 minutes, and work until the time's up. Then you take a five-minute break and repeat the process three more times. After that, you take a 15- to 30-minute break, depending on how you feel. That completes one full Pomodoro cycle.

You then repeat the process (anywhere between two to four cycles is common) until your work or study session is complete.

The Benefits:

Because each working period is relatively short and followed by a guaranteed break, the Pomodoro Technique is a great way to boost your capacity to focus, especially when tackling tasks that you might not enjoy too much and that require higher discipline.

This also helps prevent distractions because of the awareness of the timer. Speaking of timers, I use the Focus app called 'Focus Keeper.' It offers a free trial, but after that, it's $3 USD. (I'm not sponsored or anything; this is just the app that I found to be the simplest and most effective for my needs.)

With this technique, the intervals aren't too long, making it suitable for someone like me who struggles with maintaining focus. Additionally, the breaks in between help me recharge and prepare for the next focus session. It's essential for preventing the development of chronic stress or burnout in the long run.

The Drawback:

While I personally found the Pomodoro Technique quite useful, my husband didn't feel it suited him.

He pointed out that the biggest issue with the Pomodoro Technique is that it can disrupt the flow state—a period of intense focus and productivity. He feels that just as he gets into the groove of a task and reaches a state of high focus, the break timer interrupts the flow, cutting off the most productive moments.

As a result, he prefers using the Flowtime Technique.

With this technique, there's no set time for breaks. Instead, you listen to your body and set your own break times, ensuring to note when you start and end each break.

Try both methods and see which one fits your style best, or even create your own technique.

The key aspect here is to focus on one task without any distractions, allowing yourself to get into your zone, and taking necessary breaks in between.

Fun fact: I've found that the more I focus, the more enjoyable the task becomes.