How many times has it happened that you start some work, got distracted, and then left it mid-way? How many people can accurately guess the time they will take with a certain task? Not many. The underlying reason is simple – distraction and lack of focus. However, there is a solution for this problem – a focus timer.
What is a focus timer?
The basic idea is strikingly simple: Set a timer to a predefined amount of time, commonly 25 minutes. Then start working on a task and do not allow yourself to pay attention to anything else until the focus timer runs out. No Facebook, no other task, nothing.
Getting a focus timer will make you more conscious and mindful of the task at hand. It will be crucial in keeping distractions at bay and help in being your most productive self. 25 minutes spent under the watch of a timer will be better than an hour spent otherwise.
It can be of extreme help in increasing your productivity. You will also build the habit of shifting complete focus to one task at a time.
The Pomodoro Technique
The most common timer technique is the Pomodoro technique. It is a time management method developed in the late 1980s by Francesco Cirillo. It will let you use a timer and break down your work into intervals typically of 25 minutes.
Benefits
There are several benefits of focus timers. They can help with work and even improve mental health. Let’s take a look at some of the most common benefits.
Consistent Motivation
A timer will keep you motivated with the given task. A deadline window and zero distractions from the outside will help with improved focus on the task at hand. You will feel an excitement and a surge of energy to finish the job within the required time interval. Successfully reaching the finishing line will boost your morale and prepare you up for the next task at hand.
Increased Productivity
Using a focus timer will also help with your productivity levels. Without the outside distraction, you will have the chance to focus entirely on your work. Unlike in the distracted state, you will have an increased level of productivity.
Efficient use of time
The technique will make you more mindful of the time spent. It will help you with making the maximum usage of your time without wasting any of it. Taking small power breaks between work done with will keep you fresh and energetic.
Proactive Attitude
Using a focus timer will make you a go-getter instead of someone who sits around and let things happen on their own. You will develop the habit of being proactive with work and with everything in your life.
Physical and Digital Focus Timers
You can either use a simple physical timer or a digital one.
For example, this focus timer app will help you learn from inevitable interruption to continuously improve your focus skills. Go from zero to hero in a 25-minute interval.
Physical timers are more basic but tangible. The Pomodoro technique gets its name from the use of a plain kitchen timer in the form of a tomato – called pomodoro in Italian.