I use a range of techniques to getting things done. I do find one method doesn’t work for all tasks at all times.
When I have quite a substantial task to do then I often use the Pomodoro Technique or a variation of the technique.
The Pomodoro Technique was developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. He was inspired by a tomato-shaped kitchen timer, which he used to track his study sessions during his university years. The method is named after the Italian word for tomato, “pomodoro,” in honour of this tool.
The essence of the technique is to work on the task for 25 minutes and then take a break. The key is to focus during those 25 minutes and then use the 5 minutes to relax.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to using the Pomodoro Technique: Choose a task: Select the task you want to work on.
Set the timer: Set a timer for 25 minutes.
Work intensely: Focus on the task without distractions until the timer goes off.
Take a short break: Take a 5-minute break to relax and recharge.
Repeat: Repeat steps 2-4 for a set number of pomodoros, typically four.
Take a longer break: After four pomodoros, take a longer break (15-30 minutes) before starting a new set.
In addition it makes sense during the breaks to move away from the computer, go outside, walk up and down the stairs, get a drink, or whatever. Don’t just move to another task or check email or similar.
The other key is to remove interruptions, so turn off notifications, quit Teams and Outlook, and spend the time focusing on the task at hand.