And I have to share something slightly funny (but very true): one of the most unexpected uses of the Pomodoro for me has been… timing rest. 😅
I always thought the timer was for doing. But when my brain really won’t “do the braining,” I sometimes set a 10-minute “ceiling stare” timer—literally lying flat and doing nothing. If that’s not enough, it becomes a full 25-minute rest Pomodoro. Or I go outside, get real air, take a photo, jot a few inspiration notes.
Strangely, timing the rest makes it more intentional—and I come back way more brainy than if I had tried to push through.
So yes… sometimes, even for me!😅, the most productive Pomodoro is the one where "on paper" nothing “productive” should happen at all. 🍅😅
I may have to pick your brain about this madda, and see if the only time you rest is during a pomodoro haha .. Maybe you should take the timer on holiday with you ! 🤣
There’s something so powerful about you sharing the behind-the-scenes struggle. Especially as a productivity expert and psychologist. It makes the whole message even more real and generous. I think this will resonate with so many of us. Thank you!
This is exactly what I have been struggling with last week.
I as well need to write a project overview but as it’s about my artwork rather than just a general report my brain really did fight back. If I admit it the perfectionism crept in and just put a stop to everything.
I Intend to take a different approach to it this week. I want to do it more regularly with my work so would like to find an approach that works for me!
Ahh, i think we are the same here Rachael, the perfectionism is real and its sure does get in the way. I heard someone recenly say 'if somethings worth doing, its worth doing poorly!’ harder to impliment that strategy though
And I have to share something slightly funny (but very true): one of the most unexpected uses of the Pomodoro for me has been… timing rest. 😅
I always thought the timer was for doing. But when my brain really won’t “do the braining,” I sometimes set a 10-minute “ceiling stare” timer—literally lying flat and doing nothing. If that’s not enough, it becomes a full 25-minute rest Pomodoro. Or I go outside, get real air, take a photo, jot a few inspiration notes.
Strangely, timing the rest makes it more intentional—and I come back way more brainy than if I had tried to push through.
So yes… sometimes, even for me!😅, the most productive Pomodoro is the one where "on paper" nothing “productive” should happen at all. 🍅😅
I may have to pick your brain about this madda, and see if the only time you rest is during a pomodoro haha .. Maybe you should take the timer on holiday with you ! 🤣
Matt, I loved this. 💗
There’s something so powerful about you sharing the behind-the-scenes struggle. Especially as a productivity expert and psychologist. It makes the whole message even more real and generous. I think this will resonate with so many of us. Thank you!
This is exactly what I have been struggling with last week.
I as well need to write a project overview but as it’s about my artwork rather than just a general report my brain really did fight back. If I admit it the perfectionism crept in and just put a stop to everything.
I Intend to take a different approach to it this week. I want to do it more regularly with my work so would like to find an approach that works for me!
Ahh, i think we are the same here Rachael, the perfectionism is real and its sure does get in the way. I heard someone recenly say 'if somethings worth doing, its worth doing poorly!’ harder to impliment that strategy though
Need to lean into that imperfection but complete is a reality perfection but not finished is still just an idea!