It is common for people to become confused as to the differences between time boxing and the Pomodoro technique. They are indeed similar.
To choose which is just suitable for your productivity needs, let's review how each one works.
The first thing to be aware of is the time aspect. In time boxing, you are asked to block specific blocks of time, and the length can be up to you.
For instance, you may choose to block 30 minutes on which to work on a task.
With the Pomodoro technique, the time is set at 25 minutes. Once you have set the timer and begun your work, you continue until the 25 minutes is up and then take a 5-minute break.
In contrast, the time boxing you set up has to have a break time set by you. You may decide to work for 30 or 60 minutes on a task and then take a 10 or 15-minute break to refresh yourself.
As mentioned the Pomodoro technique is normally set for 25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break. You work 4 sets of 25 minutes and then after your 4th set, take a much longer break. Let’s explain why you would not use the 25 minute as in a regular Pomodoro.
You may have difficulty focusing or have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); the Pomodoro technique may be what you require. The Pomodoro technique states that you should work for 25 minutes straight; however, studies have shown that it can still be very effective if you cut that down to a number such as ten minutes.
Another thing to consider when choosing between two techniques is your overall energy level. Take the time to assess how your overall day typically progresses.
Do you tire quickly and tend to give up and look for something more straightforward to do or head to the couch for a nap?
The Pomodoro technique has breaks set into the system. Many health professionals state that increasing the number of daily breaks will increase productivity overall. This is due to taking the time to refresh the body and mind several times daily.
Ask yourself if you skip drinking water or eating some fruit because you simply forgot. If the answer is yes, then you need to look at doing the Pomodoro technique over time boxing. This can happen when you work on complex tasks and do not have a good system in place.
Time boxing requires you to enter a break time, but many people skip the break because they only have work on their minds. They say, “I'm on a roll; I cannot stop now.” If this happens to be you, you sabotage your productivity and overall health.
You need to keep yourself motivated during the day. While completing a time block of 60 minutes can give you some motivation, Pomodoro's goes further like your own motivational expert urging you on
As you complete your first set of Pomodoro’s, you take your longer break and recharge. Many people state that during this time, they tend to reflect on how well they worked and feel extremely satisfied that they completed their goal. The feeling of being pumped up and ready to work, comes from this method of work and break.
This motivational juice continues throughout the day as each unit is completed.
You can combine the elements of time boxing with the Pomodoro technique to create a unique productivity method for yourself.
Whether you use one technique or combine the two, do not forget to evaluate your progress. You have specific goals with timelines included.
Assessing your work will allow you to make changes and constantly improve your daily productivity.
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