It’s amazing what you can get done in 5 minutes. As some of you know, I love using the Pomodoro technique to work on tasks (1). A little side bonus is what you can get done in the 5-minute break.
I’ve been using my little break to tidy up around the house and it’s amazing how much you can get done. You can load the dishwater, fold away some clothes, pick up toys off the floor, take out the rubbish, whatever needs to be done. These are all things that need to be done anyway so why not fit it in, here and there.
I try to do something that isn’t at the computer, which is why I choose household tasks as it’s completely different to what I am doing. It helps me get up, change rooms and move my body.
When I think something will take just 5 minutes, I’m more likely to get started on it too. If I don’t get it all done in 5 minutes, that’s ok as I know I have made a small contribution towards it already and can pick up where I left off.
If I find myself putting something off, I can also “trick” myself into saying it will take just 5 minutes and once I get started, I don’t mind that it takes longer.
What could you do in the next 5 minutes?
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