My secret weapon behind the desk – The Pomodoro Technique

We’ve all heard that sitting is the new smoking. If that’s true, I have a “HELLO, DOLL” voice like a chain smoking waitress with a beehive hairdo!  Those of us that work behind the computer know all to well what it’s like to get in the zone and suddenly realize your butt is asleep.  And your neck hurts. I’ve currently got what I call mouse-click shoulder blade.

As much as I want a stand up desk, I’ve never purchased one.  I also have a Veridesk  model all picked out but figure it will be a cool grand by the time I buy the monitor arms.

Luckily, I discovered the Pomodoro Technique a few years ago.  The pattern is simple.  You work in 25 minute increments (pomodoros) with 5 minute breaks.  You do four 25 minute pomodoros, then you take a 20 minute break.  That’s it!  Just repeat until the day is done.  Here is a full pdf to download that explains it in detail.

I do enjoy getting a few things done around the house when I use it.  During the breaks, I can throw in a load of laundry, load the dishwasher, fold clothes.  As long as I’m not sitting and looking at a screen, I consider it a break.

Time tracking is very efficient as well.  I found a productivity planner that actually has a spot for Pomodoro tracking. I’m loving it so far.

This is another thing I’m not perfect with.  Sometimes when you’re in a creative groove, you don’t want to break it.  But I recommend you try it if you are finding yourself being a prisoner to your office chair.

Resources:  The Pomodoro Technique And 3 More Research-Backed Study Tips