Timing with Tomatoes to boost productivity

Find yourself getting really distracted when you need to get a task done, whether it’s the wanting to check and Facebook or look at that email that just came in? Then you can use the Pomodoro Technique, named after a Pomodoro kitchen timer, and described by Ian in Episode 21 of The Dyslexia Life Hacks Show.

This great technique uses short intervals of time with small brakes that help you, 1) get into a tasks when your are struggling with, 2) get some good quality work/studying with full focus. Then in the brakes you can indulge in social media or what ever takes your fancy. It also give you a break from the screen.

How to use the techniques:

  1. Eliminate all distractions (yes that does mean putting your phone on silence)
  2. Set a timer for 25 minutes
  3. Work on your task
  4. When the timer is finished, take a 5-minute break
  5. Get back to work for another 25 minutes
  6. After 4 work sessions take at longer break of 25 minutes
  7. Start all over again

Use this as a start and adjust the timings to suit you.

You can either buy a Pomodoro kitchen timer, or a stop watch and there are lots of apps out there that you can use to time.  

Like this hack?

You might also enjoy

Episode 89 – The Dyslexic Edge with Jamie Waller

Entrepreneur and author Jamie Waller believes that early support is crucial for people with dyslexia, impacting whether they achieve success or fall into adversity. Dyslexia affects 35% of entrepreneurs and up to 50% of prisoners, highlighting the narrow path between success and failure for many. Jamie, author of *The Dyslexic Edge*, shares his story of overcoming a challenging childhood in London, where his teachers gave up on him. With the help of a supportive mother and joining the Imps Motorcycle Display team, Jamie found his way to entrepreneurship, becoming a multimillionaire by his twenties. His book explores how dyslexia can be a strength, showcasing interviews with successful dyslexics like Sir Richard Branson, Theo Paphitis, and Kelly Hoppen. Jamie aims to shift perceptions, demonstrating how dyslexic thinking can offer a distinct advantage in life and business.

Episode 74 – Neurodiversity in the Workplace with Nathan Whitbread

Nathan, diagnosed with dyslexia at 35, reflects on his struggles throughout school and work until receiving proper support post-diagnosis. Now a coach, he aids individuals with neurodiversities like dyslexia and ADHD to thrive professionally. In this podcast, Nathan shares his dyslexia journey, discussing coaching techniques empowering clients to find their solutions. Since 2015, he focuses on ‘neurodiversity in the workplace,’ leveraging personal and professional expertise. As a coach, trainer, and facilitator, Nathan amplifies strengths and addresses challenges in various sectors. Accredited by the British Dyslexia Association and holding coaching qualifications from ILM and ICF, Nathan emphasizes coaching, late dyslexia discovery, and neurodiversities like ADHD and Autism. Explore his innovative approach supporting teams and individuals in this insightful episode.