Pomodoro: The art of learning to pause and rest | Xyclos
Updated: Sep 19
A while ago I discovered something fascinating: sometimes, in order to move forward, we need to stop. Sounds counterintuitive, right? But in my experience, I’ve learned that strategic pauses are the key to unlocking our productivity and creativity.
Picture this: you're working on a project, the hours tick by, and suddenly you find yourself stuck. Ideas aren't flowing, frustration is building. Sound familiar? I've been there, and it was in those moments that I discovered the transformative power of "unplugging" in order to move forward.
The concept of Pomodoro and its evolution
The Pomodoro Technique, created by Francesco Cirillo in the 1980s, proposes working in 25-minute intervals followed by 5-minute breaks. It's a simple but powerful structure. However, over time, I've learned to adapt this technique to my own pace and needs.
My personal version of Pomodoro doesn't follow strict time frames. Instead, I've learned to listen to my internal cues and take breaks when I feel like I need them, whether it's been 25 minutes or two hours.
Recognizing the need for a pause
How do you know when it's the right time to take a break? For me, the signs are clear:
When I feel stuck on a task
If I notice that my mind is constantly wandering
When frustration starts to grow
If I feel physical tension, especially in the neck or back
Learning to recognize these signals has been crucial. Our body and mind are constantly talking to us; the key is learning to listen.
Types of breaks that work for me
Effective breaks can take many forms. Here are some activities that have worked for me:
Everyday tasks: Tidying up the house, doing paperwork on your desk, or going shopping can be surprisingly refreshing.
Light entertainment: A little TikTok, a podcast, a short documentary on YouTube, or a Netflix episode can be a great way to unwind.
Physical activity: A walk can do wonders to clear your mind, sometimes short, sometimes medium-long. The important thing is to get out and clear my mind.
Personal Development: Listening to an audiobook allows me to take a break while I continue learning.
And just yesterday it appeared on the YouTube video list: Moby Dick.
I clicked on the link and what a pleasant surprise!
It is a channel created by Mario Vargas Llosa, Nobel Prize for Literature 2010 : The art of books, where he tells with excellent production, summaries of books from world literature. A delight to listen to them and let the imagination fly.
The key is to find activities that allow you to genuinely disconnect from the task you were working on.
The power of “background work”
One of the most fascinating discoveries I've made is that even when it seems like we're not doing anything work-related, our brains are still processing information in the background.
Countless times I have experienced that “ Eureka !” moment right after returning from a break. It’s as if my brain had been working on the problem the whole time, without me being aware of it.
Observed benefits
Since adopting this practice of strategic pauses, I have noticed significant improvements:
More efficient problem solving
Significant reduction in stress and frustration
Increased creativity and overall productivity
Greater satisfaction with my work
Changes in body and mind
Breaks not only benefit our productivity, they also have a positive impact on our well-being:
Decreased physical tension, especially in prone areas such as the neck and shoulders
Improved mood and reduced anxiety
Renewal of mental energy, allowing us to approach tasks with greater clarity
How to implement strategic breaks in your routine
If you want to start incorporating this practice into your life, here are some tips:
Learn to recognize your own signs of needing a break
Experiment with different types of activities during your breaks
Don't feel guilty about taking time for yourself; remember that you are investing in your productivity and well-being.
Be flexible; sometimes you will need longer breaks, other times shorter ones.
Overcoming common obstacles
It's normal to encounter resistance at first. You may feel like you're "wasting time" or that you can't afford breaks in your work environment. Remember that these breaks are an investment in your long-term productivity and well-being.
If your work environment is highly structured, consider speaking to your supervisor about the benefits of implementing strategic breaks. Many companies are recognizing the value of these practices in improving employee productivity and well-being.
An instructor's perspective
As an online course instructor, I have had the opportunity to observe firsthand how a lack of adequate breaks can impact the learning process.
It is common to see enthusiastic students who immerse themselves in the material for hours without a break, driven by their fascination with what they are learning.
While their dedication is admirable, I have learned that part of my responsibility as an educator is to teach them the importance of rest and strategic breaks.
Key Observations:
Marathon Study Sessions I have noticed some students spending hours on end on the course, which may initially seem positive, but often leads to a decrease in retention and comprehension.
Late Night Calls There have been instances of students calling me late at night, struggling with concepts that, under normal circumstances, they would be able to easily understand. This is a clear indication of mental fatigue.
The Power of Rest Invariably, when these students follow my advice to rest and return to the subject the next day, they resolve their doubts much more easily.
Lessons learned:
This experience as an instructor has taught me that rest and breaks are not only beneficial, but essential in the learning process.
I have seen how implementing strategic breaks and adequate rest can:
Improve understanding and retention of complex information
Reduce frustration and stress associated with learning
Increase overall study efficiency
Fostering a healthier relationship with learning
Furthermore, this has led me to reflect on how these principles apply not only to study, but also to the work environment.
I encourage my students to carry these practices into their work, reminding them that sustainable productivity is based on the balance between concentrated effort and adequate rest.
Conclusion
The art of learning to pause and rest goes beyond a simple productivity technique; it is a fundamental approach to effective learning and overall well-being.
Whether you're studying, working on a complex project, or simply trying to be more productive in your day-to-day life, remember that strategic breaks are your ally, not your enemy.
As an instructor, I have seen how implementing these practices can transform the learning experience for my students.
As a professional, I have personally experienced how they can improve productivity and creativity.
I invite you to explore your own rhythm of work and rest. Listen to your body and mind, experiment with different types of breaks, and discover how the art of pausing can revolutionize the way you learn, work, and live.
Remember, true progress is not always measured by the hours you spend in front of a screen or a book, but by the quality of your understanding and the sustainability of your effort.
Sometimes the secret to moving forward is knowing when to pause.
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