Some Kinda Time Management

Hey guys!!  Its been a hard week for me so far  and sometimes I just feel like throwing in the towel. I saw this and thought it might help if I tried it to get my clutter- both mental and physical- under control. I needed some kinda time management.

Its not that I didn’t have any system before, its just that I was taking on a lot more work and was starting to fall behind. I know I am not perfect but in my work environment its not even an option to have any delay- thanks to the “ubber b*tch” of a boss. Ever since I voiced my opinions its been a rough road every single day with her!

So here’s something I found online. Thanks to Mess-2-Success posting a comment on the blog by BreyBrey44 that I liked- no loved!

 

“The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. The technique uses a timer to break down work into intervals traditionally 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks. These intervals are known as “pomodori”, the plural of the Italian word pomodoro for “tomato”. The method is based on the idea that frequent breaks can improve mental agility.

There are five basic steps to implementing the technique:

1. Decide on the task to be done
2. Set the pomodoro timer to n minutes (traditionally 25)
3. Work on the task until the timer rings; record with an x
4. Take a short break (3–5 minutes)
5. After four pomodori, take a longer break (15–30 minutes)

The stages of planning, tracking, recording, processing and visualizing are fundamental to the technique. In the planning phase tasks are prioritized by recording them in a “To Do Today” list. This enables users to estimate the effort tasks require. As pomodori are completed, they are recorded, adding to a sense of accomplishment and providing raw data for subsequent self-observation and improvement.

For the purposes of the technique, “pomodoro” refers to the interval of time spent working. After task completion, any time remaining in the pomodoro is devoted to overlearning. Regular breaks are taken, aiding assimilation. A short (3–5 minutes) rest separates consecutive pomodori. Four pomodori form a set. A longer (15–30 minute) rest is taken between sets.

An essential aim of the technique is to reduce the impact of internal and external interruptions on focus and flow. A pomodoro is indivisible. When interrupted during a pomodoro either the other activity must be recorded and postponed (inform – negotiate – schedule – call back) or the pomodoro must be abandoned.

The creator and others encourage a low-tech approach, using a mechanical timer, paper and pencil. The physical act of winding up the timer confirms the user’s determination to start the task; ticking externalises desire to complete the task; ringing announces a break. Flow and focus become associated with these physical stimuli.

The technique has inspired application software for a variety of platforms.” –Wikipedia