Transformation Tuesday #25: the Pomodoro Technique
Before I started organizing professionally, my brother asked me a question about how long it took me to make frosting. Seems random, but my sister-and-law and I do quite a bit of baking and he wanted to know how long it takes to bake, whip, frost, assemble.
I started timing how long it took to make Italian Meringue buttercream versus a classic American buttercream, which cake recipes had fewer ingredients so I could whip them up more quickly and be more efficient (and enjoy baked goods that much sooner!).
This got me thinking about everyday tasks, how much time I think it takes to complete versus how much time they actually take to do. I was telling a friend about this and she asked if I had heard of the Pomodoro Technique. I immediately looked it up and have started using it when I feel like I don't have enough to clean my house or I need to accomplish several admin to do's related to my business.
It makes the laundry list of chores, responding to the emails, accounting for receipts less daunting. How, you ask?
I now know exactly how long it takes to complete certain chores:
2.5 minutes to make the bed (queen)
4.5 minutes to change the sheets and make the bed
7 minutes to unload the dishwasher
As a result of #1, my attitude has shifted and helped me complete said chores quickly (no longer complaining about how long it takes to put fresh sheets on the bed - I can spare five minutes). I find that I'm not putting them off because I know they don't take much time at all.
I'm more focused and efficient in accomplishing tasks. By using the timer and working only on one task at a time, I'm not going down the internet rabbit hole, getting distracted by an article, emails that pop up, or anything else.
Here's a look into the power of the Pomodoro:
Not only did I clear out the kitchen, entry way, and bedroom, but I checked off a few action items with emails, website updates, and updating invoices in my accounting software.
I'd love to hear about your favorite time management techniques - let me know in the comments below!