EFFECTIVE WRITING MADE EASY

I just came across a method of time management called The Pomodoro Technique. An Italian productivity consultant named Francesco Cirillo came up with it in 1980, using a timer shaped like a tomato, hence “pomodoro”.

Research has shown that the brain can focus intently for 25 minutes but then needs a break. So, Cirillo's idea is to break up a large task, like writing a book, into 25-minute segments. Each segment is called a pomodoro.

Here's how it works:

• Set a timer for 25 minutes and work until it rings.

• Put a check mark on a piece of paper.

• Take a three- to five-minute break (not work-related).

• Repeat until you have 4 check marks.

• Take a 15- to 30-minute break. The brain will rest and recoup, ready for the next round.

Using this method tells the brain there is a sense of urgency—time ticking down. And this in turn, creates a sharper focus on the task.

So, how many pomodoros should you/could you do in a day? Well, that depends on you. If the job is boring, you might only do 8. If you are enjoying yourself and are on a roll, you might have a fabulous day and complete 16!

In any case, completing each pomodoro will motivate you to do another, and another. Keeping track in your Day-Timer of how many you complete each day will further motivate you. And keeping track will show you just how much you have accomplished.

This is a very simple tool to use and is guaranteed to motivate you to GET WRITING!

Dominique and her husband are the authors of Ideas and Tips for MARKETING YOUR BOOK, available as a flip book on CD or an eBook, PDF version. Information may be found on the website: