Helping Productivity Bloom

Springtime is one the busiest times of the year with renewals and quoting, specifically for auto policies.

With all this productivity around you, you should have plenty of motivation to dive into agency work ahead of June and July—right?

We've all been there; while having lots of business to attend to is a good thing, it can sometimes just feel daunting. If you're feeling stuck in the muck and your motivation just won't budge, you may want to consider using The Pomodoro Technique.

Plant Good Habits

Now, those of you who know Italian may be thinking, “What’s a tomato got to do with productivity?” The name actually comes from the tomato-shaped kitchen timer Francesco Cirillo used when he created this technique in the 1980s—and while the timer is only a small part of the technique, it is a vital building block that helps you shift your mindset away from the anxiety of starting.

The Pomodoro Technique focuses on working during 25-minute intervals—also known as
“Pomodoros”—then taking a 5-minute break.

Here’s how it works: 

1. Figure out what you'll be focusing on.
2. Set a 25-minute timer.
3. Work until the timer goes off.
4. Take a 5-minute break. (Drink some water, eat a snack, stretch, etc.)
5. Repeat the process.
6. Take longer 15—30-minute breaks every four pomodoros. 

According to Verywell Mind, the Pomodoro technique aims to work with your brain, not against it, by balancing effort with breaks to reduce feelings of burnout and boredom. It encourages focused and quality work, without feeling overwhelmed or anxious—essentially, it allows you to hold yourself accountable and helps you accomplish your goals.

Harvest Amazing Results

Before you set your timer, here are a few tips that can help you get the most out of your pomodoro intervals:

• The fixed timeframe of pomodoros and breaks can sometimes feel too rigid and regimented. 

  • Try breaking up smaller, similar tasks within the pomodoros. This will help you see your progress better and prevent you from finishing before the pomodoro is over, leaving you unsure of what to do next.
• Do your best to only focus on the task at hand.
  • If it doesn’t directly relate to what you’re working on, make a note to return to it later. This could either be a distraction that can be addressed on your break, or be added to a different pomodoro. 
• The Pomodoro Technique doesn’t account for interruptions beyond your control, such as incoming claims and applications, important phone calls or emails, or a change of plans.  
  • In that case, it's okay to take your 5-minute break and start over, just to get your head back on track.
    

The Todoist explains that the Pomodoro Technique asks you to break down your projects or goals into manageable tasks, which helps you stay motivated and focused rather than overwhelmed by the task you have to complete. 

As Spring turns into Summer and your June/July busy season approaches, remember to take things one step at a time, and you'll reap the benefits.