PRODUCTIVITY

My Formal Separation From The Pomodoro Technique

Reflection is crucial for the creative life

As my intimates have always known, I spend most of my time looking out the window (I recommend it) — Joyce Carol Oates.

Dear Pomodoro;

First, I would like to say thank you. Since I found you five days ago, I've made great progress. My attention span is longer, I check off more items on my to-do list and my breaks are well-planned and structured. If nothing else, your buzzing has made me realise that YouTube and Facebook sessions can be productive.

But I digress. The reason I am writing this letter is not just to thank you, but to inform you that I will no longer be using you. Not for my writing sessions. While, as I have stated before, I appreciate that you've encouraged me to be mindful during my breaks, you hinder my creativity.

You see, 25 minutes are just too short, too limited and too rushed for me to tap into my genius. The imaginative life demands unrestricted hours spent staring out the window. Hours consumed with daydreams of the nomadic writer’s life. An idyllic life filled with margaritas, beach views and relaxing massages. Long minutes spent with my eyes closed and a serene smile on my face. Endless moments of the euphoria of my first viral article and making it to the New York Time’s bestseller list.

I will continue to time my trivial tasks; the email responses and pointless spreadsheets. I will continue to watch the clock tick down to the last second as I sip on my tea. I will continue to listen out for the buzz at the end of the envy-inducing Instagram scrolls. But I will not time my creative sessions. From now on when I sit down to churn article after article, I will let my mind wander unattended.

Since I am still a newbie, I realize this decision goes against everything the prolific writers tell us. Build a routine, stay focused as you write and create structure around your day. Don’t wait for the Muse; let him find you on the journey. I hope there will be no hard feelings. I would like to reiterate that I am grateful for all you have done for my attention on the unimportant tasks. From refilling my cup of tea, scrolling through social media and stocking my wish list cart.

I’d love nothing more than to continue training my attention, as long as it does not include my productive daydreaming sessions.

Sincerely;

The brooding writer whose desk faces the window.

As always thanks for reading. Keep the comments and corrections coming.

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