Unlocking Productivity with the Pomodoro Technique

Emma Spence
Oct 22, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Nov 26, 2025

What is The Pomodoro Technique?

The Pomodoro Technique is a time-management method that encourages focused work for short bursts. Here’s how it works:

25 minutes of work + 5 minutes of rest = 1 Pomodoro
After completing 3 Pomodoros, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes.
Start the cycle again.

Why Bother? (Benefits That Actually Stick)

Build Consistency

The Pomodoro Technique helps you establish routines and consistent work habits. Instead of waiting for inspiration to strike, you can accurately assess how many Pomodoros a task will take. This leads to more reliable work habits over time.

Easier to Get Started

Staring down a big task can be daunting. Suddenly, everything else seems more appealing—watering plants, cleaning your desk, or even de-fleaing the cat. You might start procrastinating without even realising it. The Pomodoro Technique allows you to break down tasks into tiny, manageable steps.

Combat Distractions

In today’s world, distractions are everywhere. Emails, team chats, and social media constantly vie for our attention. Often, we are our own worst enemies when it comes to distractions. Thoughts like, “I fancy a cuppa, so I’ll do that now,” can pull us away from our work. The Pomodoro Technique gives you a clear measurement of your time and efforts, helping you stay focused.

Gamify Your Productivity

If you enjoy a little competition, each Pomodoro offers a chance to improve. Challenge yourself to complete a big task within a specific number of Pomodoros. Set a daily goal for Pomodoros and track your progress. You’ll get a little hit of dopamine each time you complete one. Let’s face it, a day filled with tomatoes is far more enjoyable than a day of unfinished tasks!

Non-Negotiables That Make It Work

🍅 Batch Small Tasks Together

Don’t set “ring the vet” as one Pomodoro. Combine tasks that can realistically be completed in 25 minutes.

🍅 Complete Each Pomodoro

Once you start a Pomodoro, commit to completing that section of time. If a task takes less than 25 minutes, continue working on it until the time is up. You can edit, pre-read, or schedule a post during that time.

🍅 Effective Breaks Are Key

Not all breaks are created equal. Consider what will make for an effective break. Scrolling through Instagram might not be the best choice. Instead, apply the 20-20-20 rule: every 25 minutes, take a few minutes to look at something 20+ feet away.

The Tomato Connection

So, what does this all have to do with tomatoes? In the late 80s, Francesco Cirillo, an Italian university student, struggled to stay focused. He developed a strategy of working for 25 minutes and then taking a 5-minute break. To keep track of time, he used a tomato-shaped kitchen timer. The Italian word for tomato is “pomodoro,” and thus, the Pomodoro Technique was born.

Pro tip for ADHD readers: Don’t be afraid to tweak the intervals. If 25 minutes feels too long, start with 10–15. The goal is momentum, not perfection. Movement breaks, visual timers, or accountability partners can make this technique even more effective.

You don't have to master Pomodoro on day one. Start with a single tomato 🍅 or a timer of your choice! Alexa or Siri can help as well. See what happens when you give it a try.