Anybody else using Pomodoro time management technique?

I have been working for two jobs, one in EU and one in US time zone for quite some time already. Both are management positions, one more leadership related, one more hands-on. This does not come down to 16 hours a day, but 80 hours per week due to flexibility. I push certain tasks to weekends in order to get more sleep and there is less chat in Teams. After some months, I was very close to burnout, I believe I created a thread here as well, although starting using Pomodoro in both has made it much easier, while more gets done.

Pomodoro technique utilizes focused periods followed by a short break and after 4 cycles a longer break. Pomodoro Technique Wiki

Personally, what works best for me is 4*25 minute focus periods followed by 5 minute break. After 4 such sprints, I do 30 minute break. I have also started setting every meeting exactly 25 minutes, which makes them more on point and less fluff. During the short breaks, I just do breathing exercises/meditation and stretches. During longer break, I have a walk in the park close to office. I do think of work during that one, but being in the fresh air truly gives different perspective and ideas. In the end, the productivity is significantly higher and more gets done.

Anybody else is using that technique? Any tips on how to improve on it are welcome.

It's funny but I kindof do this naturally. A timer to keep more precise would be a great idea

No way I could do office work for long periods. I eventually just get mentally bogged down.

The breaks for walking are essential, I think it helps get the blood flowing again and break up the mental drag.

I know some people who pull longer days have the under desk bike and a standing desk. Minor things. I don’t think there’s a “secret” on how to do it.

I think it would be easier to work crazy hours if it’s hybrid out at sites with customers, or honestly a physical job. When I was an ops manager for a logistics company, the 60-70 hour weeks were easier than a rough office week. I started my days with clearing emails and getting ready for the day. Then we’d run the sort in the warehouse and then do some admin work back in the office. Broke up the monotony.

Man how can you manage from a zoom call. You sound like a product of the Covid years and a bad one.

a reply to: Cabin

a reply to: Cre8chaos79

I understand. Generally, for me as well. I used to be a smoker. Sometimes, though, I was immersed in a task too long and afterwards, the energy was low. The more structured approach allows me to manage energy throughout the long day.

There are actually lots of Pomodoro timers out there, some really cool designs. I used to use my phone, but got one as a gift.

a reply to: Athetos

Why can one not manage via a Zoom call?