Overview

I’ll admit it. I have a hard time focusing. And when times were mentally tough it was even worse. My kids still pick on me when I space out. I'll admit it, there's a lot going on in my head. 🙂

I started getting into the Pomodoro technique. Here are a couple of things I tried which helped me block time.

 

The Pomodoro Technique

From wikipedia

“The Pomodoro® Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo[1] in the late 1980s.[2] The technique uses a timer to break down work into intervals, traditionally 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks. Each interval is known as a pomodoro, from the Italian word for ‘tomato‘, after the tomato-shaped kitchen timer that Cirillo used as a university student.”

Here's a link giving more detail on the Pomodoro Technique 

iPhone – Free

You can always use the timer on your phone.

  1. Set it for 25 minutes.  
  2. After 25 minutes, take a 5 minute break.
  3. Set it for 25 minutes again.
  4. Do this 4 times. It will equal 2 hours of solid work.

 

Apple Watch – Free

I use my Apple Watch timer and set it for 25 or 25 increments when working.

Here's how I set it up:

  1. Change your watch face to show the timer.
  2. When you're ready to start, click on the timer and choose 25 minutes.
  3. After 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break.
  4. Start the timer again. 
  5. Do this 4 times. This will give you 2 solid hours.

Here's a link for the instructions.

Apps

Bear Focus Timer (BFT) – free

Lately while at work, I’ll use the bear app. This is now my favorite tool and I've accomplished so much more with it.

Here's how it works.

  • I'll put on a set of headphones
  • Open up the app
  • Then turn my phone face down
  • When I turn my phone over, white noise plays in the headphones.

This does 2 things.

  1. It causes me to stop picking up my phone. You will be surprised how many times you will try to pick up your phone.
  2. I start to pick up my phone and I pause and think, “Do I really need to check my phone?” And I go back to work. Therefore, you won't check email, texts, etc. Focus on what's important.

Here's a link to see some more info.