It can sometimes be difficult to stay on task and productive for extended periods. And this is why many experts recommend changing the style of your work to short dedicated bursts.
Work Smarter Not Harder
Although you may think that if you work for an eight-hour day, you will accomplish things more quickly, according to consultant Francesco Cirillo, this is not true. This is because, during a long work period, numerous distractions constantly pull you away from your work, such as emails and phone calls, which can’t be ignored.
Also, the pressure on your mind to perform over a long period can quickly transform into frustration. And this frustration leads to you accomplishing less than you think. This is why it is recommended to break your workday down into shorter chunks of time.
How It Works
Short-burst productivity focuses on remaining hyper-focused for a short, specified period. And during this time, you mustn’t acknowledge any distractions.
- First, make a list of everything you need to get done, then you set your timer. Cirillo recommends using a physical timer and setting it for 25 minutes to start.
- When the timer goes off, take a 3-5-minute break to address anything you may need to, then set the timer again and do another 25 minutes.
- Repeat this three times until you have worked for just over 100 minutes.
- Then take an extended twenty-minute break before starting the cycle over again.
You’ll likely be surprised when you look back over what you accomplished.
Why A Physical Timer?
You should use a physical timer, such as a kitchen timer, and not the ‘glance at the clock’ method because having something count down that you can physically see is part of the effect.
This helps you feel a sense of urgency in your work, even if the work you are completing isn’t urgent. And when the timer goes off, you will likely feel a sense of mild accomplishment of what you’ve completed.
The concept of short-burst productivity may not sound like it is an efficient way to work, but experts who have worked with the human mind for years swear by it. So next time you have a large project to tackle, consider grabbing your kitchen timer and try breaking it down into easier pieces to handle.
By working in short bursts, you actually accomplish much more. You can use this technique to achieve your goals as well. By understanding your goals and breaking them down into smaller goals, you will accomplish them and be more successful.
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